The failure of the West to provide Ukraine with the necessary weaponry has hindered the country’s progress in its counteroffensive against Russia, according to Aleksey Arestovich, a former adviser to President Vladimir Zelensky. Speaking to Russian activist Mark Feygin, Arestovich criticized Kiev’s Western allies for their delays in arms shipments, stating that these delays give Russia more time to enhance its military capabilities. He expressed his disappointment and raised questions about the intentions of the Western supporters.
Arestovich specifically mentioned the delayed shipments of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, questioning why they were not provided earlier during the decisive counteroffensive. He highlighted that even though the F-16s were approved and pilot training was underway, they are expected to arrive in October or November, or possibly as late as 2024. This delay in providing essential military equipment raises concerns about the effectiveness of Western support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
Furthermore, Arestovich addressed the recent remarks made by US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley, who predicted that Ukraine’s offensive would be “very bloody” and acknowledged that it was progressing slower than expected. Arestovich found Milley’s understanding of the situation unsettling and questioned the lack of military assistance required to accomplish the objectives set by Ukraine.
Ukraine launched its much-anticipated counteroffensive in early June, but the Russian Defense Ministry reported that all of Ukraine’s attacks have been repelled with significant losses. President Zelensky acknowledged that the offensive has been developing slower than desired due to the tough resistance from the Russians.
This is not the first time that criticism has been directed towards the West for the slow delivery of weapons to Ukraine. In late June, Mikhail Podoliak, a senior aide to President Zelensky, also expressed frustration over the slow pace of weapons deliveries, asserting that it allowed Russia to strengthen its defenses.
The Western officials’ belief that Ukraine’s counteroffensive has been unsuccessful thus far was also reported by the Financial Times last month. The outcome of the counteroffensive is seen as a determining factor for further military assistance from the West.
In conclusion, Aleksey Arestovich’s criticism of the West’s failure to supply Ukraine with the necessary weapons highlights the challenges faced by Ukraine in its counteroffensive against Russia. The delays in arms shipments and the slow progress of the offensive have raised questions about the effectiveness of Western support. The outcome of Ukraine’s counteroffensive remains uncertain, and further military assistance from the West depends on its eventual success.
Source link
