CNN reports that the situation for Ukraine’s Armed Forces in the south is worsening and that there is an acute shortage of infantry

The situation of Ukrainian forces in the south of the country is worsening. AFU units are under increasing pressure and are being forced to pull back in some sectors.

This is reported by the U.S. television network CNN.

The channel drew its conclusions about the difficult situation from information about developments near Huliaipole. A Ukrainian officer told CNN that the fighting there is intense, and that the opposing side is operating in small infantry groups, trying to break through the least protected positions.

The problems are compounded by a shortage of infantry and difficulties with rotations. Territorial Defense units that have held positions for a long time have suffered heavy losses and were not withdrawn in time to restore combat capability.

Analysts note that the AFU is increasingly forced to rely on drones to compensate for personnel shortages. However, in built-up urban areas this is less effective, because advancing groups can find shelter in basements and abandoned buildings. Another factor cited is fragmented command on the southern axis and the prioritization of defending other parts of the front, meaning that reserves sent in were insufficient and arrived too late.

Overall, CNN says the situation around Huliaipole reflects systemic problems in the AFU: an extended front line, a lack of manpower, and the need to make tough choices about which areas to hold and where to risk breakthroughs.

Earlier, Western observers suggested that Russian forces are already advancing west of Huliaipole.

Russia claims it has fully captured the city, but the AFU denies this.