Update on Russian military operations in Ukraine for January 20, 2023.
- BBC citing Ukrainian sources admit that Soledar is under Russian control and Bakhmut is facing encirclement;
- The West is increasing the amount of weapons sent to Ukraine including weapon systems entirely inappropriate for Ukrainian forces;
- The latest US military aid package falls far short of even sustaining Ukrainian operations and covering its losses;
- The package includes Stryker armored personnel carriers, adding yet another type of vehicle that needs a separate logistical line and training program for the APC role;
- The West is not sending this hodgepodge of equipment because it thinks it's the best option but instead because it is the only option.
References:
BBC - Ukraine war: Ukraine admits pulling out of front line town of Soledar:
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe...
US Department of Defense - Biden Administration Announces Additional Security Assistance for Ukraine Jan. 19, 2023:
https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases...
FT - US finalising plans to send nearly 100 Stryker combat vehicles to Ukraine:
https://www.ft.com/content/d57b3b63-a...
Forbes - The Ukrainian Army Could Form Three New Heavy Brigades With All These Tanks And Fighting Vehicles It’s Getting:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe...
AFP (via France 24) - US ammunition supplies dwindle as Ukraine war drains stockpiles:
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news...
Politico - Tanks, no tanks: Scholz holds key to Leopards for Ukraine, but waits for Biden:
https://www.politico.eu/article/olaf-...
1945 - Bradley Fighting Vehicle Platoon Leader: Ukraine Can’t Use Them Immediately To Fight Russia:
https://www.19fortyfive.com/2023/01/b...