Ukraine's Defence Braces for Russian Offensive Amid Aid Delay
National Guard of Ukraine commander Oleksandr Piwnenko is prepared for the Russians to try to capitalise on their advantage soon. The announcement of new Western aid for Kyiv offers hope for bolstering Ukraine's capabilities, but the arrival of new weapons may take some time. Russia is likely to exploit this window of opportunity.
24 April 2024 14:32
"The Russians are preparing 'unpleasant surprises' for our Defence Forces on unexpected fronts and might achieve certain successes, potentially accomplishing 10-15% of their objectives," said Oleksandr Piwnenko in a conversation with Liga.net.
The commander of the National Guard, however, believes that an intensified Russian offensive will not secure the Kremlin a strategic victory. The military emphasises that Moscow will not succeed in taking control of either Zaporizhzhia or Kharkiv, and attempts to attack Kyiv again will merely be for show.
According to Piwnenko's assessments, the Ukrainian army braces itself for several challenging months of Russian offensives. The Ukrainian forces are preparing for attacks in the most unexpected locations. "There will be pressure; they will attempt attacks wherever feasible. We will adjust the contact lines and units and utilise reserves. We will coordinate with artillery and FPV drones," assured the commander of the Ukrainian forces.
Oleksandr Piwnenko noted that despite considerable losses, Russia could continue its offensive without pausing. It can enlist another 30,000 soldiers every month.
To decisively win the war, Ukraine needs to deliver a significantly stronger blow to Russia, causing losses that cannot be quickly recovered, Piwnenko explains. This applies to both personnel and military equipment.
Ukraine prepares for the worst: difficult months ahead
The National Guard of Ukraine commander believes Russia will not achieve any strategic objectives this year. However, he mentioned that given two or three years to recover, it would certainly come back stronger.
Therefore, full-scale mobilisation is crucial for Ukraine. Boosting the ranks of Ukraine's Defence could ensure rotation at the front and improve the army's efficiency. "Without rotation, people become exhausted, and no unit can keep defending without a break for 2 or 3 years," added Oleksandr Piwnenko.
