Today marks day 375 of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with reports of continued attacks and casualties on both sides. Ukrainian forces have been successful in holding off attacks from Russian troops attempting to surround the town of Bakhmut, with the Ukrainian general staff reporting that they have repelled over 130 enemy attacks in the past day. However, in the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson, a woman and two children were killed in Russian mortar shelling of a village.
The conflict has also resulted in the potential deportation of tens of thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia, according to Ukrainian MP Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze, who described it as “genocide”. Western states have expressed their support for Ukraine, with Latvia’s prime minister stating that it is “only a question of time” before fighter jets are delivered to assist in Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
Recent intelligence from the UK’s Ministry of Defence suggests an increase in close combat in Ukraine, potentially due to Russia’s shortage of munitions. The ministry also reported that Russian mobilized reservists were ordered to assault a Ukrainian concrete strongpoint armed with only “firearms and shovels”.
Former chief of the general staff Gen Lord Richard Dannatt has suggested that Ukraine may be able to mount a successful counter-offensive in late spring or early summer, with the possibility of a decisive outcome on the battlefield this year. Meanwhile, Turkey is working to extend a UN-backed initiative that has enabled Ukraine to export grain from ports blockaded by Russia.
Two Ukrainian pilots are currently in Arizona to train in flight simulators and be evaluated by the US military, although it remains unclear whether the US will send fighter jets or sophisticated remotely piloted drones to assist Ukraine. Top commanders of Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine have also briefed Russia’s defense minister on the current situation and action plans, according to the Russian Ministry of Defence.
Overall, the conflict shows no signs of abating, with continued reports of attacks and casualties on both sides. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with many expressing their support for Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
