General Freuding does not expect a standstill in Ukraine
Bundeswehr Brigadier General Christian Freuding describes the current situation on the front line in Ukraine as a phase of operational stalemate. "We can see that the initiative is switching back and forth between the Ukrainian and Russian armed forces," the head of the special staff for Ukraine at the Ministry of Defense told the Stuttgarter Nachrichten newspaper.
The Ukrainian counter-offensive in the south near Zaporizhia has lost momentum, but the territorial gains made are being maintained, he says. "In the north and east, for example in the Donetsk region, we can see that the Russian armed forces are attacking again with maximum use of manpower and material. So far with little progress."
Moscow's high losses are in line with Russian doctrine. They want to force a success, regardless of men and material. Russia has a large potential pool of soldiers at its disposal. "The extent to which they also want to mobilize this for political reasons is difficult to assess at the moment - especially in light of the upcoming presidential elections in spring 2024," says Freuding. In terms of equipment, we can already see that old models from the 60s and 70s are often in use.
Freuding expects the pace of operations to slow down in the coming months. However, there will be no standstill. The winter will have an impact, but the effects of the weather should not be overestimated, especially in the south. "I also believe that both sides will be forced to consolidate during the winter," says Freuding. There will be refresher courses and training for the troops. "It's quite possible that both sides will concentrate on attacking targets in the hinterland such as depots, infrastructure and command posts."
Freuding assumes that Ukraine will need Western help for years to come. Military support will be a task until the end of the decade and beyond. Funds have already been earmarked in the budget until 2032. "We must help Ukraine to develop capabilities so that it can remain a free state that can defend itself and deter aggressors."
Freuding does not see any competition between support for Ukraine and support for Israel. The starting situation of the two countries is very different. "The Ukrainian armed forces are only just beginning to modernize. Israel's army is excellently equipped, highly trained and prepared to fight a war from one day to the next." In addition, the way the two countries wage war is different. In order to end the war in Ukraine, it is necessary to ensure that the time factor is not Russia's ally, says Freuding. "We have to make it clear to Putin: We will hold out longer, freedom wins."
- Despite the operational stalemate, General Freuding highlights the necessity of continued military support from countries like Germany, as Ukraine will need assistance for several years to come, to maintain its defensive capabilities and deter further attacks from Russia, such as in the 'Attack on Ukraine'.
- Recently, Russia has increased its attacks in the Donetsk region with a significant deployment of troops and resources, despite facing high losses, which aligns with their military doctrine focused on achieving success by any means necessary, including the use of manpower and outdated equipment.
- Amidst the ongoing 'Attack on Ukraine', Germany has agreed to deliver arms to Ukraine, which could potentially impact the balance of power on the battlefield and provide Ukraine with a strategic advantage in its defense against Russian attacks.
Source: www.ntv.de
