The Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mark Milley, has warned that Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia will come at a high cost for its troops and is expected to last for several months. Speaking at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, Milley acknowledged that it is not surprising that Kiev’s counteroffensive is progressing slower than anticipated. He stated that the operation is challenging, long, and extremely bloody, emphasizing that there should be no illusions about the difficulties Ukraine faces in fighting against a powerful adversary.
Milley explained that the advancement of Ukrainian forces has been hindered by Russian-laid minefields, further complicating their progress. He stressed that this conflict will be protracted and will exact a heavy toll on Ukraine’s military personnel. The US military commander cautioned that this counteroffensive is a matter of survival for Ukraine and should not be underestimated.
In response to inquiries about whether the US will supply Ukraine with cluster munitions, which are banned in numerous countries due to their significant risks to civilians, Milley stated that the US has various options. However, he noted that the final decision on providing such weaponry rests with US President Joe Biden.
The Russian Defense Ministry has reported that Ukrainian forces’ attacks during their large-scale offensive in early June have been repelled with significant losses. Nikolay Patrushev, the secretary of the Russian Security Council, estimated Ukrainian casualties in the counteroffensive to be over 13,000 troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin added that Ukraine has lost 259 tanks and 780 armored vehicles during the same period.
Ukrainian officials have openly acknowledged the challenges they face in their counteroffensive. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the operation is progressing slower than desired due to tough resistance from Russian troops. Valery Zaluzhny, Ukraine’s top general, expressed frustration at criticism of the offensive’s slow pace, emphasizing that it is not a spectacle but a battle fought with bloodshed for every meter gained.
The current situation in Ukraine reflects the seriousness of the conflict and the heavy toll it is taking on both Ukraine and Russia. As the counteroffensive continues, it is crucial to recognize the sacrifices made by Ukrainian soldiers in their fight for survival. The international community must remain vigilant and supportive of efforts to de-escalate the situation and find a peaceful resolution.
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