Ukraine has successfully repelled a battalion-sized mechanized assault on its eastern front, marking the first attack of such magnitude in five months. This defensive victory underscores the resilience of Ukrainian forces. However, it also raises concerns about Russia’s escalating ambitions as it prepares for an anticipated major offensive.
The assault, which occurred on Sunday, involved approximately three dozen tanks and a dozen infantry fighting vehicles. The attack struck near the village of Tonenke, close to Avdiivka—a city that Russia overran on February 17 and has been gradually advancing westward from ever since. According to a Ukrainian serviceman, one-third of the tanks and two-thirds of the infantry fighting vehicles were destroyed during the engagement.
The Russian forces initially launched a formidable assault, with a Russian trainer of Storm-Z assault forces describing the start as “very good.” However, as subsequent approaches unfolded, the intensity of fire dwindled to sporadic artillery rounds, resulting in significant losses. Interestingly, the last group of vehicles entering the battlefront suffered no casualties, hinting at potential exhaustion of local Ukrainian defenses. The regularity of such attacks could eventually strain the enemy’s strike capabilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed determination not to retreat, emphasizing the critical need for US support. Without it, Ukraine lacks essential resources, including air defense systems, Patriot missiles, electronic warfare jammers, and 155-millimeter artillery rounds. Unfortunately, the $60.1 billion in US military aid requested by the Biden administration last December has faced delays due to a small group of lawmakers loyal to former President Donald Trump. Europe has stepped in to mitigate some shortages, with initiatives like locating a million artillery shells worldwide and France pledging reconditioned armored personnel vehicles.
Despite their successful defense, Ukrainian leaders recognize the precarious situation and the importance of sustained international assistance.
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