Russia Ukraine calls for expanded deployment options ahead of Russian offensive
In view of the threat of a Russian offensive near Kursk, Ukraine is pushing for more freedom in the use of Western long-range weapons. President Zelensky emphasizes the need to attack deeper targets in Russia in order to weaken Russian combat power.
12.11.2024, 05:06
SDA
Ukraine is facing a possible Russian counter-offensive in the border region near Kursk and is demanding that its Western supporters relax the restrictions on the use of long-range weapons supplied. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized on Telegram the urgency of being allowed to attack targets deep in Russian territory in order to reduce Russia's military clout.
Since the start of the Ukrainian offensive on Kursk in August, which Russia responded to by recapturing several settlements, the front line has hardly changed. Due to the restrictions imposed by its allies, Ukraine has so far mainly used combat drones against Russian targets.
US media report a massive build-up of Russian troops in the frontline area, including soldiers from North Korea. These troops are expected to launch a counter-offensive shortly. Selensky had recently stated that some of the 11,000 North Korean soldiers were already involved in fighting.
Russian troops tied up near Kursk
According to Selenskyj, the Ukrainian offensive near Kursk has tied up around 50,000 Russian soldiers, who can therefore not be deployed on other fronts. Attacks on Russian weapons depots have also reduced the occupying forces' artillery stocks, which is noticeable in the battle zone. However, this information has not been independently verified.
Political developments in the USA
In the USA, there are signs of a reduction in support for Ukraine following a possible change of government. President-elect Donald Trump is considering appointing Mike Waltz, a critic of aid to Ukraine, as National Security Advisor. Waltz has already called for a rethink in US support and emphasized that European countries should contribute more.
During the election campaign, Trump had promised to end the war in Ukraine quickly, but without naming any concrete plans. The Ukrainian leadership fears that under Trump, US military aid, which has so far been crucial for the defense against the Russian invasion, could dry up.
European support and military situation
During a visit to Kiev, EU chief diplomat Josep Borrell assured the EU of its continued support. He emphasized the need to stand by Ukraine's side and promised the delivery of one million artillery shells by the end of the year.
At the same time, pressure on Ukraine is growing in the east of the country. In the Kharkiv region, the evacuation of further villages has been ordered as Russian troops are advancing and shelling civilian settlements. Over 6,500 people have been evacuated since September.
In Kurakhove, the Ukrainian defenders are threatened with encirclement by Russian units attempting to cut off supplies. The situation for Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk region has been deteriorating rapidly since August.
Strengthening drone defense
In order to better protect its airspace, Ukraine is strengthening its mobile drone defense units. President Zelensky announced in a video message that an air alert had been triggered in several cities due to new swarms of Russian drones.
