In a recent report, the Washington Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has stated that the “second army of the world” is attempting to revive maneuver warfare in Ukraine. However, the Russian invaders are currently unable to return to this concept, thanks to the presence of Western weapons in the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF). The message is clear: the occupiers are trying to regain the upper hand, but they are being thwarted by the strength and resilience of the UAF.
Since the beginning of the conflict in eastern Ukraine, the Russian Federation has employed a hybrid warfare strategy, using a combination of conventional and unconventional tactics. This includes the use of clandestine forces, propaganda, and economic pressure, in addition to traditional military operations. However, one of the most significant components of their strategy has been the use of maneuver warfare, which involves rapidly moving and adapting forces to outmaneuver and overwhelm the enemy.
At the height of the conflict, the Russian-backed separatists were able to successfully employ this tactic, taking control of large swathes of territory in eastern Ukraine. However, as the UAF has grown stronger and received support from Western countries, the tide has turned. The ISW report notes that the presence of advanced Western weapons in the UAF has significantly limited the effectiveness of the Russian strategy.
One key example of this is the use of the Javelin anti-tank missile, which has been supplied to the UAF by the United States. This advanced weapon has proven to be a game-changer on the battlefield, as it is capable of destroying Russian tanks and armored vehicles, which were previously thought to be invincible. This has forced the Russian-backed forces to change their tactics and rely more on defensive positions, rather than attempting to maneuver and take territory.
The ISW report also highlights the importance of improved training and tactics within the UAF. As they have gained experience and received training from their Western allies, the Ukrainian soldiers have become more skilled at countering the Russian strategy. This has been evident in recent battles, where the UAF has successfully repelled multiple attempts by the Russian-backed separatists to regain control of key areas.
Furthermore, the report emphasizes that the Ukrainian government has also taken steps to bolster its military capabilities, including increasing defense spending and modernizing its armed forces. This has further strengthened the UAF and made it more difficult for the occupiers to achieve their goals.
The fact that the Russian invaders are struggling to revive maneuver warfare in Ukraine is a testament to the strength and determination of the Ukrainian people. Despite facing a well-equipped and aggressive enemy, the UAF has stood strong and defended their country with courage and resilience. This is a clear indication that the occupiers will not be able to achieve their goals through force and aggression.
In conclusion, the ISW report has shed light on the current state of the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the crucial role that Western support and the strength of the UAF have played in limiting the effectiveness of the Russian strategy. It is a testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian people and their determination to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity. As the report states, the occupiers may be attempting to revive maneuver warfare, but they are currently being held back by the strength of the Ukrainian armed forces.
