The escalating conflict in Ukraine is currently of major concern, with the country's survival potentially hinging on external support, as highlighted by CIA director William Burns.
Struggles of the Ukrainian Military
Ukraine's armed forces are currently grappling with a series of challenges. They are experiencing difficulties in maintaining equipment supplied by the Pentagon and are unable to replace any destroyed equipment. Shortages of artillery and air defense ammunition are also significant issues, with Europe struggling to address these shortfalls.
These difficulties are contributing to high-ranking Ukrainian military officials' fears of a “collapse” of frontlines, especially in areas where Russian generals concentrate their offensives. As it stands, Russia's armed forces have increased by 15% since the invasion of Ukraine, as reported by US Gen. Christopher Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR).
Adding to the concern, Russia is intensifying its strikes on crucial Ukrainian infrastructure and could soon have the ability to fire ten times as many artillery shells as Ukraine if the situation remains unchanged.
Dependence on US Support
According to CIA director William Burns, Ukraine might be able to hold out until 2024 provided it receives military assistance. Without such aid, Ukraine faces potential devastation, including the possible loss on the battlefield by the end of 2024 or Putin determining the terms of a political settlement.
The US Congress is set to decide on whether to release billion in military aid to Ukraine on April 20. The question of what “losing the war” would imply remains uncertain. Some sources suggest that while it's unlikely Russia would gain full control of Ukraine, it could seize extensive territory and freeze the conflict.
The Impact of Equipment and Personnel Shortages
The lack of equipment and personnel is providing Russia with more opportunities for launching offensives along the frontline. For example, two Ukrainian brigades reportedly only have enough artillery shells to last a few days.
Changes to Ukrainian Conscription Laws
The Ukrainian parliament has passed a law regarding mobilization, which reduces the required age for conscription from 27 to 25 and imposes stricter sanctions for draft evasion. A clause allowing the demobilization of soldiers serving over 36 months has been removed, although the future vote on this subject is unknown.