Russia forms "strategic reserves": doubts over feasibility and readiness
Putin's army is rolling out a continuous draft. The American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports that units are being formed in Russia to serve as a "strategic reserve". These units could potentially execute full-scale attacks with heavy weapons. However, ISW questions the feasibility of these plans.
Experts believe the new units could meet the Kremlin's expectations, but this would only be the case if they were fully equipped and the soldiers adequately trained.
Experience indicates, though, that since the invasion began, the Russians have encountered significant issues with both aspects: often, untrained reservists are sent to the front line without the appropriate weapons.
However, analysts also mention that the available sources do not entirely clarify what kind of "strategic reserve" Russia is aiming to establish.
The Kremlin's new plan: "Strategic reserves" are in the works
ISW further suggests that the Kremlin wouldn't be able to deploy these reserves at the front as independent units but only "to replenish the numbers of units currently engaged in combat".
"The establishment of additional reserves will likely allow the Russian army to make up for losses in Ukraine without significant operational pauses between the current frontline activities and the offensive expected in summer 2024" - ISW analysts report.
Source: "Ukrainian Truth"
