Cumulative Impact of Russian Attacks on Ukraine Forces Sparks Pleas for Increased Support

The ongoing relentless attacks by Russia on Ukraine are taking a toll on the effectiveness of Ukraine’s fighting force, with calls for heightened support from allies to counter Moscow’s aggression. Retired Australian Army major general Mick Ryan emphasized the cumulative impact of the daily Russian assaults, stressing the need for increased backing from international partners in the fight against Russia’s incursions.

Ryan highlighted the strain faced by Ukraine’s troops who are required to defend against multiple individual attacks across an extensive frontline spanning hundreds of kilometers each day. The continuous pressure from these attacks has a gradual, debilitating effect on both the military and the nation, which Ryan described as akin to a ‘death by a thousand cuts’.

While acknowledging the generous assistance provided by many nations to Ukraine, Ryan pointed out that the level of support falls short of effectively deterring Russian aggression. He criticized the strategy of ‘trickle-feeding support’ over an extended period, arguing that it fails to halt the conflict or dissuade Putin from further hostilities.

At the recent NATO summit, alliance members committed to substantial long-term security aid totaling at least 40 billion euros. This support will encompass the procurement of military equipment, funding for maintenance and logistics, transportation of weaponry, and training for Ukrainian forces. Additionally, Ukraine signed a bilateral security agreement with Romania for the transfer of a Patriot air defense system in the future.

President Zelensky sealed agreements with Poland and disclosed ongoing negotiations for security pacts with the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Ireland. Simultaneously, the European Commission announced the formation of the Ukraine Compact, a coalition of 21 countries and the European Union, pledging to uphold Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.