Republicans, by blocking U.S. military aid, could derail the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ advance – Financial Times

The Republican position that is blocking U.S. military aid to Ukraine may hinder the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ offensive capabilities.

This concern has been raised in an article by the Financial Times.

“Even a temporary pause in support could, within weeks, begin to constrain Ukrainian military strategy and tactics, potentially checking Ukraine’s counteroffensive, reducing pressure on Russian forces, and allowing them to rebuild their capabilities,” writes the publication, citing its sources and military experts.

This primarily pertains to the supply of artillery ammunition and anti-aircraft systems. According to the estimates in the article, Ukraine is using around 6,000-7,000 artillery shells daily to target Russian fortifications, and this must be done faster than Russia can rebuild them.

“If they feel they are no longer going to get more, they will start conserving, which will halt the counteroffensive. If the aid is interrupted for even a few weeks, it could lead to setbacks and reversals,” says Dara Massicot of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

The Financial Times notes that U.S. reserves of artillery ammunition are running low, which is why the Americans have started delivering cluster munitions. There are plans to gradually increase their production.

However, U.S. General Charles Brown states that Washington has already planned military supplies to Ukraine at least until January 1, 2024. The Pentagon has around $5.4 billion left in reserves for these purposes.

“But in a few weeks, if there’s no serious change in Congress, I think it will affect decisions made on the battlefield. It will certainly affect plans for the winter and spring,” says Max Bergman from the Center for Strategic and International Studies.