Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Russia lacks the military strength to launch large-scale new offensives, citing significant troop losses after over three and a half years of conflict. According to Zelensky, Russia’s substantial losses have hindered its ability to initiate further major actions.
Both Ukraine and Russia rarely disclose figures on their own losses, with experts considering the few numbers mentioned to be significantly understated. Zelensky mentioned that Russia had prepared operations this year along four axes: Sumy, Novopavlivka, Pokrovsk, and Zaporizhzhya. The Sumy operation has already failed, resulting in heavy losses for Russia, particularly in terms of manpower, and prompting a redeployment of forces to other fronts.
In early August, Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi described the situation in the eastern Donetsk region as critical, particularly near Pokrovsk, Dobropillia, and the border with the Dnipropetrovsk region. Zelensky also announced that Ukraine is expecting the imminent delivery of missiles for Patriot and HIMARS air defense systems.
Under NATO’s new Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism, Ukraine has received over $2 billion from partners. Additional funds expected in October will bring the total to around $3.6 billion, with the initial $500 million packages including missiles for Patriot and HIMARS systems. The PURL mechanism is designed to coordinate arms deliveries procured in the US for Ukraine but financed by allied nations.
The expected delivery of missiles and additional funding is significant for Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. As the situation continues to unfold, Ukraine’s ability to defend itself will remain a key factor in the conflict’s outcome. With international support and the continued supply of military aid, Ukraine is working to bolster its defenses and prepare for potential future offensives.
