The Institute for War Studies estimates in its latest report that in his New Year’s speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not present plans on how the Russian armed forces intend to reverse the unfavorable course of the war with Ukraine. An American think tank also claims that Russia is running out of ammunition.
In his New Year’s speech Vladimir Putin did not present plans on how the Russian armed forces intend to reverse the unfavorable course of the war against them Ukraine and how Russia will continue to strive to achieve its maximalist goals, the Institute of War Studies (ISW) estimates in the latest report.
According to the American think tank, Putin focused on justifying the attack on Ukraine and the human costs incurred in connection with it. He admitted that 2022 “was a year of difficult, necessary decisions” that he considered necessary for Russia to achieve “full sovereignty.”
Destruction in Kiev after a Russian missile hit PAP/EPA/OLEG PETRASYUK
ISW analysts estimate that the Russian dictator’s speech contained rhetorical statements that Russia has a historic right to Ukraine, and regaining control over it is a condition for Russia’s independence and sovereignty. All this means that Putin is not focused on a peaceful solution, and only the victories of the Ukrainian army on the battlefield and the liberation of further territories from occupation may force him to change his position.
ISW: Russia is running out of ammunition
A Washington-based think tank says Russia’s December 31 missile attack on Ukrainian infrastructure was less intense than previous ones. According to the Institute of Internal Affairs, the Russian troops are running out of ammunition, which will affect the course of operations at the front, especially in the vicinity of Bakhmut in the Donetsk region, in eastern Ukraine. Also for this reason, a new Russian attack on Ukraine from the territory is unlikely in the coming months Belarus.
Main photo source: PAP/EPA/RUSSIAN DEFENSE MINISTRY PRESS SERVICE