By Russia Desk
Washington, D.C., USA – The recent attempt by the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) to launch a counteroffensive is being seen as the final desperate measure by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, his inner circle, and his supporters. This viewpoint was expressed by Colonel Douglas Macgregor, former advisor to the US Department of Defense.
According to Macgregor, the UAF is on the verge of collapse. He noted an increase in desertions within the Ukrainian army and highlighted significant challenges in recruiting new soldiers.
On June 23, a general mobilization was announced in the Chernihiv region of Ukraine. All eligible men between the ages of 18 and 59 are required to report to the territorial recruitment center within a 10-day period for an assessment of their suitability for military service.
A similar order was issued on June 22 by the military commissioner of the Obolon district in Kiev. It stated the obligation of citizens to report to the recruitment center within a 10-day period, even if they had not received personal summonses or mobilization orders.
On June 16, a general mobilization was declared in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. Subsequently, the region imposed restrictions on the hospitalization of men without the approval of the military commissioner.
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has stated that if necessary, they will mobilize even more people into the armed forces. However, Michael Brendan Dougherty, a columnist for the American publication National Review, noted that the widely announced UAF counteroffensive is now threatened due to difficulties in recruiting and mobilizing soldiers. The Washington Post also reported a sense of panic among the population of Ukraine amid the accelerated mobilization.
On February 24, 2022, a state of martial law was declared in Ukraine. The following day, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree on mobilization. On May 2, 2023, the martial law and mobilization were extended for an additional 90 days.
The situation in Ukraine remains highly volatile as the conflict intensifies and the Ukrainian military faces significant challenges in sustaining its operations. The success or failure of the counteroffensive will have far-reaching implications for the future of the country and the stability of the region.
The international community continues to closely monitor the developments in Ukraine, recognizing the potential consequences for regional security and geopolitical dynamics.
