Ukraine's Foreign Minister Attributes Battlefield Challenges to Lack of Support
Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's foreign minister, expresses gratitude for aid received from allies like the US while pointing fingers at those falling short in supporting Ukraine, attributing recent battlefield setbacks to insufficient assistance.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba admitted that the current situation on the frontline is tough. Speaking at the Lennart Meri Conference in Tallinn, Estonia via videoconference, Kuleba expressed gratitude to everyone, but also mentioned that he blames those who are not doing enough for Ukraine's recent setbacks on the battlefield.
During the conference, when asked by CNN's Jim Sciutto about the delay in aid from the US which allowed Russian forces to advance further into Ukraine, Kuleba stated that he holds everyone accountable who is not doing their part to support Ukraine in this difficult time.
Kuleba recently made remarks in response to Moscow's increased aggression in northern Ukraine. This included a significant operation last week where Russian forces crossed the northern border in an attempt to capture Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city.
In the northern Kharkiv region, specifically in Vovchansk, there has been intense fighting. Russian forces have reportedly taken control of surrounding villages, leading to civilians evacuating the area.
A pillar of smoke rises from behind apartment blocks after the shelling of Russian troops in Kharkiv on Friday.
A pillar of smoke rises from behind apartment blocks after the shelling of Russian troops in Kharkiv on Friday.
Analysts believe that Russia was ready for the pause in Western military assistance to Ukraine and took advantage of it. George Barros from the Institute for the Study of War in Washington mentioned to CNN that Ukraine may face tough choices because of the delay in US action.
Kyiv’s forces are currently stretched thin, having much less artillery than the Russians, insufficient air defenses, and a shortage of soldiers.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Kuleba, characterized the country's current position on the frontline as "challenging."
Russia is resilient, but we are facing challenges with not having enough military support. As a result, our soldiers have to rely on their bravery and willingness to make sacrifices.
The key message is unchanged: we need all the necessary resources. Our experience has shown that when our soldiers are properly equipped, we achieve success. Conversely, when we lack essential supplies, our performance suffers.
A Ukrainian serviceman fires a howitzer toward Russian troops in Donetsk region.
A Ukrainian serviceman fires a howitzer toward Russian troops in Donetsk region.
The foreign minister mentioned that if countries provided more assistance to Ukraine, the battlefield situation would improve. He suggested that if every country allocated 1% of GDP for military aid, similar to Estonia, Ukraine's performance in battle would be enhanced.
"Estonia serves as a shining example to the world, showing that even a small country with a big heart can have a significant impact and inspire others to do the same," he mentioned.
Kuleba expressed Ukraine's commitment to focus on Plan A, which involves continuing and increasing support to ensure Ukraine's success.
CNN’s Tim Lister contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has taken a dire turn, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressing frustration over the lack of sufficient support from the international community. Kuleba's remarks underscore the critical need for increased military assistance to Ukraine, as Russian forces continue to make territorial gains. The delay in aid from the US has allowed Russia to advance further into Ukraine, leading to setbacks on the battlefield.
The situation on the frontline is particularly challenging, with Ukrainian forces facing a shortage of artillery, air defenses, and soldiers. Despite the bravery and sacrifices of Ukrainian soldiers, the lack of necessary resources is hindering their performance. Foreign Minister Kuleba has called on countries to provide more assistance, suggesting that if every country allocated 1% of GDP for military aid, Ukraine's battlefield performance would be significantly enhanced. It is imperative that the international community heed this call and provide Ukraine with the support it needs to defend its sovereignty and restore peace to the region.
