Ukraine Conflict: Kyiv Compelled to Reduce Military Operations due to Decreasing Foreign Aid

Ukraine is facing a reduction in military operations due to a decrease in foreign aid, according to top general Oleksandr Tarnavskyi. Troops are experiencing shortages of ammunition along the entire front line, creating a significant problem for Kyiv. The delay in billions of dollars of US and EU aid has caused difficulties for Ukraine, which hopes to enhance its ammunition industry with Western assistance. However, the country heavily relies on Western supplies, particularly long-range missiles and air defense systems, to combat Russian forces. Gen Tarnavskyi highlighted the shortage of artillery shells, especially for Soviet-era weapons, stating that the available volumes are insufficient for their needs. As a result, they are redistributing resources and scaling back their tasks. The reduction in foreign military aid is already impacting the battlefield and altering tactics. The setbacks in aid come from both the EU and the US, with Republicans in the US Congress blocking a $60bn military package and Hungary blocking a €50bn financial aid deal. Despite these obstacles, EU leaders have assured Ukraine of ongoing support. However, Ukraine's ammunition shortage persists as deliveries have been slower than anticipated. The country is depleting ammunition faster than it can be produced. Ukraine's Deputy Defense Minister Ivan Havryliuk revealed that they have ramped up production of kamikaze drones and are increasing their own production of artillery rounds. Additionally, Ukraine aims to boost its defense industry by collaborating with Western companies for ammunition production on Ukrainian soil. The country has signed agreements with US firms to initiate joint production. Ukraine acknowledges that it cannot match Russia's resources and manpower and is focused on achieving technological superiority. Gen Havryliuk remains confident that international partners will continue to provide aid and support to Ukraine. However, the situation has led Russia to perceive a weakening of international backing for Ukraine. There are concerns that by shifting its economy to a war footing, Moscow can outlast Western powers in this battle of attrition. Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated that the war will only end when Russia achieves its objectives. Estonia's defense adviser to NATO, Kalle Kirss, emphasizes the need for Europe to commit funding to support Ukraine and demonstrate readiness for a prolonged war.