Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urgently calls for increased military support in response to Russia’s Monday (July 15) announcement that it has completed drafting 150,000 conscripts into its armed forces.
Zelenskyy pleads for more fighter jets and advanced missile defense systems from its Western allies to counter the Kremlin’s vigorous new offensive.
“There will not be enough [F-16s]. They will certainly strengthen us, but will there be enough of them to fight at a level with the Russian air force? I think they will not be enough,” said the Ukrainian President during a press conference in Kyiv on Monday. “We are anticipating a larger quantity.”
President Zelenskyy previously reiterated the dire situation faced by his country at the NATO summit in Washington last week, stating that Ukraine has “lost the initiative” against Russian advances due to delays in international aid.
Aside from the F-16s, Ukraine also needs at least 25 additional Patriot defense systems to regain momentum and fully defend its airspace against Russian missile attacks.
Rapid Russian Mobilization
On the Russian home front, the spring draft, which concluded with the induction of 150,000 new recruits, is seen as a strategic move to bolster its military presence.
Although Russian law stipulates that these conscripts are to be deployed within Russia, freeing up seasoned troops for frontline duties, contrary to official statements, concerns linger about their potential involvement in Ukrainian territories.
US Political Dynamics and Ukraine Aid
Recent changes in the US political landscape underscore the urgency of Zelenskyy’s request.
The selection of Senator JD Vance, a vocal critic of American aid to Ukraine, as former President Donald Trump’s running mate casts a long shadow over the future of American support.
Vance has suggested that Ukraine should be prepared to concede territory to achieve peace, a stance that could potentially lead to a significant reduction in US military aid should Trump return to office.
Operational Overview: A Theater at the Tipping Point
The operational theater presents a critical juncture, with Ukrainian forces striving to maintain defensive integrity against a numerically superior Russian adversary.
The interplay of global politics and military strategy will significantly influence the operational trajectory in this regional conflict, which will have broader implications for international security stability.
The illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is continuing.
The map below is the latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 19 July 2024.
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Speaking at a recent press conference in Kyiv, the Ukrainian President also expressed his intentions to convene another international peace summit, extending a notable invitation to Russia.
This proposed peace summit, aimed for November, seeks to forge a “fully ready plan” for peace, contrasting starkly with the previous summit held in Geneva, which did not include Russian delegates.
Despite these diplomatic moves, the reality on the ground remains grim, with Russia and Ukraine proposing opposing ceasefire terms, effectively halting progress.
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