Precise and systematic strikes by Ukrainian forces on the enemy’s key logistical arteries have triggered a large-scale crisis within the Russian army, compelling the occupiers to take desperate measures by urgently withdrawing air defense systems from the front lines.
War in Ukraine / Illustrative photo / © Associated Press
Over the past few months, the Defense Forces of Ukraine have managed to significantly undermine the offensive potential of the Russian invaders on the front lines. Systematic attacks on enemy logistical routes in the Azov Sea are forcing the adversary to change tactics and lose firepower.
Pavel Lakiichuk, director of security programs at the “Strategy XXI” Center for Global Studies, discussed the tangible consequences of Ukrainian strikes for the Russian army in a commentary for “Kyiv24.”
Reduced Artillery Superiority and Shell Hunger
The expert compared the winter and summer periods, noting striking changes in the balance of artillery forces. While in December-January, the Russians’ advantage in artillery volleys reached three to four times, in June-July, it decreased to a factor of 1.5.
Although the occupying troops still maintain some firepower superiority, the number of available shells for them has significantly decreased. This is a gradual and synergistic effect of constant pressure on Russian supply lines.
Fuel Crisis and Destruction of the Oil Terminal
A similar situation is observed with the provision of fuel and lubricants to the enemy army. Russia is already artificially creating a gasoline deficit, and while diesel fuel is produced in surplus, there is a catastrophic shortage directly within the troops.
The main problem for the occupiers lies in the inability to safely deliver this fuel to their units through the territory of Crimea and other logistical hubs. Transportation arteries are under constant fire control, disrupting all supply chains.
A significant bonus in this fight has been the destruction of the so-called virtual oil terminal at the entrance to the Kerch Strait. Pavel Lakiichuk called this successful strike by Ukrainian forces a real jackpot that has further complicated life for the invaders.
Withdrawal of Air Defense and Shifting Frontline Dynamics
To protect their shadow fleet and remaining logistics near the Kerch Strait, the Russian command is forced to take desperate actions. They are withdrawing some combat units and expensive anti-aircraft missile systems from the front lines and redeploying them to the rear.
This information is also confirmed by Ukrainian military personnel on the ground. In particular, a drone systems unit has recorded that a significant portion of the enemy group “Rubikon” and the Russian Black Sea Fleet are now solely engaged in guarding logistical routes, rather than combat operations.
The ultimate goal of such systematic strikes on Russian rear areas is to fundamentally alter the disposition directly on the line of contact. The weakening of enemy artillery and air defense on the front provides the Defense Forces of Ukraine with new opportunities for successful combat operations.
Recall that Russia’s shadow fleet is suffering systematic losses due to Ukrainian drone attacks. In the Azov Sea, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have already hit over a hundred Russian vessels. In the last night alone, Ukrainian drones damaged 11 enemy targets in the water area.
Comments Sort: New Old Popular Send
Source: tsn.ua