Ukraine confronts dual challenges of combatting Russia and navigating shifting political dynamics in the US

KYIV, Ukraine – With nearly two and a half years of fighting Russia, Ukraine finds itself grappling with escalating challenges on the battlefield while facing uncertainty regarding crucial support from the United States. A six-month delay in U.S. military assistance has emboldened Kremlin forces to advance on the front line, where Ukrainian troops are striving to contain Russia’s gradually advancing and superior army.

Military analyst Michael Kofman from the Carnegie Endowment pointed out in a recent podcast that the upcoming two to three months could be the toughest for Ukraine this year. In the backdrop looms a concern for Ukraine about the duration of Western political and military support crucial for its defense.

Recently, former President Donald Trump’s running mate choice for the Republican ticket in November’s U.S. election, Sen. JD Vance, has expressed a desire for the U.S. to focus on domestic issues rather than a war thousands of miles away. Meanwhile, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has stirred controversy by holding meetings with Putin and Xi Jinping, showing support for Russia.

The protracted conflict has already claimed tens of thousands of lives, including civilians, with no apparent end in sight. Putin seems keen on prolonging the war to test Western resolve in supporting Ukraine financially.

Challenges facing Ukraine on various fronts include:
– The Battle Front: Russia holds 18% of Ukrainian territory, but Ukraine has managed to push back forces from half of the area seized in 2022. Strategic regions like Kharkiv, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia are currently under pressure.
– Power Grid: Russian attacks have severely damaged Ukraine’s power sources, raising concerns about a tough winter ahead due to power shortages.
– Ammunition: New ammunition deliveries are helping Ukraine stabilize its front line, but replenishing depleted stocks will take time, delaying the possibility of a counteroffensive until later this year at the earliest.
– Fortifications: Russia’s strategy involves destroying towns and villages to deny defensive cover, but Ukrainian fortifications have improved recently.
– Expanded Military Conscription: Ukraine has expanded its military conscription to boost exhausted forces, but challenges remain in training new troops and providing promised Western weapons.
– Weaponry: NATO countries have committed to providing Ukraine with additional security aid, including Stinger missiles and F-16 warplanes, but limitations on weapon use hinder Ukraine’s efforts to win the war.

As battles continue to rage and challenges persist, the future of Ukraine’s defense hinges on its ability to withstand and overcome these obstacles with the support of allies.