Russia is outgunning Ukrainian forces sixfold on the front lines, causing troop and territorial losses, says recently appointed Ukraine’s Armed Forces Commander, Oleksandr Syrskyi, in his first interview in this role.
“A few days ago, the enemy’s advantage in terms of ammunition fired was about six to one. The defense forces are now performing tasks along the entire vast front line, with little or no weapons and ammunition,” Syrskyi told the Ukrinform news agency, describing the situation as “tense” in some areas.
Syrskyi also stated that recently, the number of positions regained by Ukrainians has exceeded those lost. He echoed President Zelenskyy’s claim that Russia’s winter eastern offensive was halted.
“The Russians failed to make significant advances in strategic directions, and any territorial gains they may have are of only tactical significance,” said Syrskyi.
Regarding a potential new Russian attempt to capture Kharkiv, Syrskyi said Ukraine is fortifying defenses and preparing for such potential actions.
“If the Russians move there again, Kharkiv will become a fatal city for them,” Syrskyi believes.
Regarding mobilization, which is unpopular in Ukrainian society, Syrskyi said mobilizing 500,000 is unnecessary now, but didn’t specify actual needs.
“We are reviewing the staffing of certain units not involved in combat operations, based on an audit of their activities. This has allowed us to free up thousands of servicemembers and redirect them to combat units,” the commander said.
Syrskyi also refuted rumors that thousands of Ukrainians were captured by Russia during the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Avdiivka in Donetsk region.
“25 Ukrainian service members were captured by Russia. This is war… Russian propagandists are trying to use various videos of captured Ukrainian soldiers to discredit the Defense Forces of Ukraine, apply psychological pressure and spread panic among Ukrainians,” Syrskyi stated.
Syrskyi took over as commander in February after Zelenskyy fired the popular Valery Zaluzhnyi.
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