U.S.Views Russian Attack "Fascinating Yet Concerning"
Russian troops pressing forward north-east of Kharkiv prompt concern from US officials, who believe the offensive could be the start of a larger campaign. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is demanding actual weapon deliveries, not just announced packages.
The US government is keeping a close eye on Russia's latest advance near Kharkiv, a city they anticipated would be targeted. National Security Council Communications Director John Kirby said, "We knew Russia would aim for Kharkiv, and now it seems they've begun to attack." Prior attempts by Russia to capture the city had failed.
Kirby further explained that Russia's recent actions near Kharkiv are "disturbing and definitely cause for concern." The White House additionally hinted at planning a significant offensive against Kharkiv.
Careful coordination between the US and Ukraine has been key in supporting their military efforts. However, Kirby stressed the urgency in getting the newly agreed-upon military aid into the front lines as quickly as possible.
Frontline concerns
President Zelensky similarly expressed his worries, stating, "What truly helps are the weapons that are handed over to Ukraine, not just the announced packages."
On Friday morning, Russian troops initiated an attack on Vovchansk, a city approximately 40 kilometers north-east of Kharkiv on the Russo-Ukrainian border. This adds to the existing problems along the 1,000-kilometer long front line, as Ukraine was recently pushed back at Bakhmut and Avdiivka. Their defense forces continue to be short on both weapons and ammunition due to internal political squabbles in the United States blocking regular shipments.
Despite several large aid packages recently launched by the US government, the Russian military is using this period to make strategic gains. General Olexander Pavlyuk, the commander of the Ukrainian army, told the "Economist" magazine that he expects Russian forces to continue their advance until US aid arrives.
Kirby criticized the delay in months of new aid afforded by the US Congress, describing it as giving Russia an advantage and enabling them to make tactical headway. Zelensky acknowledged it would take time for the Ukrainians to reclaim the offensive, stating, "There's a possibility that Russia could make further advances in the next few weeks, but we don't expect any major breakthroughs. Over the course of 2024, the influx of U.S. assistance will allow Ukraine to repel these attacks."
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Source: www.ntv.de
