Ukraine Pulls Back Abrams Tanks Amidst Drone Threat
Ukraine has withdrawn American-donated Abrams tanks from the active battlefield for the time being due to the growing threat posed by Russian drone warfare.
In recent months, Russia has significantly increased its deployment of both surveillance and attack drones. This increased drone activity has made it considerably more difficult for Ukrainian forces to effectively protect the tanks.
Ukraine has already sustained losses of five Abrams tanks out of the total of 31 sent by the United States. Most of these losses occurred during fighting around the eastern city of Avdiivka.
Russia has adapted its military tactics to the specific challenges of the war in Ukraine. Notably, Russia has invested heavily in drone technology, and these drones are proving to be a growing challenge for Ukrainian defenses. The number of Russian drones operating on the front lines has doubled in the past three months. This significant increase in drone activity is the primary reason behind the Ukrainian military's decision to temporarily withdraw the Abrams tanks.
In a separate development, the Pentagon has confirmed to The New York Times that Ukraine is now authorized to use American-made ATACMS long-range missiles. These missiles have the capability to strike targets located within annexed Crimea.
The Situation on the Front Lines:
The situation on the eastern front lines remains tense. Ukrainian forces defending the city of Chasiv Yar are under constant pressure from Russian ground attacks, aerial bombardments, and sustained artillery fire. However, Ukrainian defenders have successfully repelled Russian attempts to enter the city thus far.
Moscow appears determined to capture Chasiv Yar by May 9, which is known as Victory Day in Russia. To achieve this objective, Russian forces are relentlessly attacking Ukrainian positions with drones and guided bombs. Ukrainian forces have managed to maintain control of the airspace through the use of specialized air defense systems.
A Russian victory in Chasiv Yar would be a significant development, bringing them one step closer to breaching the Ukrainian defensive line.
Impact of US Assistance:
The recent adoption of a new US assistance package has provided a much-needed boost to Ukrainian morale and has strengthened their ability to resist the Russian advance.
Despite this additional support, Russia retains a significant advantage in terms of both manpower and ammunition. Russian forces are estimated to be adding up to 30,000 new volunteers to their ranks each month. Additionally, Russia enjoys a roughly 6-to-1 advantage in terms of artillery shell expenditure. This disparity in resources has so far prevented Ukraine from launching any major counteroffensives.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
