The Russian invasion of Ukraine is entering its sixth week. Ben Hodges, former commanding general of the US Army in Europe, reminds LA RAZÓN that the casualties are in the thousands because it is a high-intensity battle. Hodges, who holds the Pershing Chair in Strategic Studies at the Center for European Political Analysis (CEPA), points out that Putin wants to destroy the Ukrainian economy so that it cannot integrate with the West.
Why has the Russian military changed its main objectives?
The Ukrainians have defeated the Russians on almost all flanks, the Russians have stagnated and are no longer able to conduct sustained offensive operations, so they are pursuing a smaller objective.
Will Russian President Vladimir Putin stop when they finally control the entire Donbass region?
Ultimately, it won’t stop until it’s stopped. That’s why the United States and our European allies must now turn to supporting Ukraine. The goal should be for Ukraine to win, not just survive or avoid defeat.
Believes that Russia Did you think the war would be easier? What about the capture of Kiev in a few days?
Apparently the Russians thought they would achieve their objectives in a few days.
Why does Russia attack so many civilian targets such as shopping centers and maternity hospitals?
It is the Russian way of waging war. They respect neither international law nor human life, not even that of their own soldiers. Putin wants to punish Ukraine and destroy its economy so that it can no longer integrate into the West.
What does the Ukrainian army need to resist the Russian invasion?
Long-range artillery and missiles destroying Russian Navy ships, and Russian artillery and missiles destroying Ukrainian cities. They also need to be able to hit Sevastopol (Crimea) and prevent Russian missiles from reaching their cities.
Are the Russians suffering from a lack of ammunition? Because?
Due to poor logistical planning. The cost of ammunition in combat is always higher than expected.
How many Russian soldiers are already fighting?
Almost their entire regular army is involved… They don’t have many new units left. They are severely understaffed and know they are in trouble.
How many victims can this war claim? Why so many deaths?
Modern warfare is very deadly. This is not counterinsurgency. It’s a high intensity fight.