"Ukraine gräbt sich in Erwartung russischer Offensive ein" - Reisner zu Kiews Militärstrategie | ntv

Summary

In a recent interview, Colonel Markus Reisner of the Austrian Armed Forces provides a comprehensive update on the situation in Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. Reisner highlights Ukraine's strategic shift from offensive to defensive tactics in 2024, focusing on consolidating gains and preparing for possible future offensives in 2025. He details the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, including resource constraints and the necessity of adapting strategies in response to Russian advancements. Reisner also discusses the implications of NATO's large-scale exercise, Steadfast Defender, aimed at demonstrating the alliance's readiness and deterrence capabilities. The conversation reveals the complex dynamics of the conflict, emphasizing the strategic calculations on both sides and the critical role of international support for Ukraine.

Takeaways

• 📍 The Ukraine has announced a strategic shift from offensive to defensive operations in 2024, aiming to consolidate its gains and prepare for potential offensives in 2025.
• 🔨 Ukrainian forces are focusing on fortifying their positions, constructing trenches, and anti-tank obstacles in anticipation of a Russian offensive.
• 🛡️ The strategy shift to defense is influenced by resource constraints, particularly in munitions, necessitating a focus on conservation and consolidation.
• 🚨 Despite the defensive stance, Ukraine continues to engage in offensive actions outside the front lines, including drone strikes deep into Russian territory.
• 🔥 Ukraine reports successful attacks, such as on Russian aircraft and missile strikes on Crimea, highlighting ongoing efforts to maintain offensive capabilities.
• 💡 The conflict is multifaceted, with significant emphasis on controlling the information domain to maintain morale and the perception of momentum.
• 👍 Russia is believed to have a substantial resource advantage, including a higher rate of artillery munition production and deployment of forces.
• 🛠️ The difference in munition usage rates between Ukraine and Russia points to a significant disparity, impacting the dynamics of the conflict.
• 🔴 There are concerns about the sustainability of Ukraine's defensive capabilities if resource shortages, particularly in munitions, continue.
• 🚧 NATO's large-scale exercise 'Steadfast Defender' aims to demonstrate readiness and deterrence, showing the ability to rapidly mobilize and respond to threats.

Q & A

What strategic shift did Ukrainian officials announce for 2024?

Ukrainian officials announced a shift from offensive operations to consolidating their defenses in 2024, with plans to possibly return to offensive operations in 2025.

Why did Ukraine decide to move from offensive to defensive operations?

Ukraine recognized that due to supply difficulties, it was necessary to consolidate and strengthen its positions, focusing on holding gained territories and preparing for a potential Russian offensive.

What defensive measures are Ukrainian forces taking?

Ukrainian forces are constructing fortifications such as trenches and anti-tank obstacles to strengthen their defensive positions in anticipation of a Russian offensive.

How is Ukraine attempting to maintain momentum despite focusing on defense?

Despite focusing on defense, Ukraine is attempting to maintain momentum by carrying out long-range drone attacks deep into Russian territory and achieving tactical successes such as attacking Russian aircraft and launching missile strikes on Crimea.

What does the term 'Stellungskrieg' or 'position warfare' indicate about the current state of the conflict?

The term 'Stellungskrieg' or 'position warfare' indicates that the conflict has evolved into a stalemate, with both sides entrenched and making limited territorial gains, reflecting a static front line.

What is the significance of controlling the information space in this conflict?

Controlling the information space is crucial for maintaining morale and the perception of momentum, as it helps to ensure that the public and international community view one's side as maintaining the upper hand.

What challenges does Ukraine face in terms of resource and munition availability?

Ukraine faces significant challenges due to a shortage of resources and munitions, relying on Western support for military supplies which has not fully met their needs, impacting their ability to sustain prolonged offensive operations.

How does the NATO exercise 'steadfast Defender' aim to impact the conflict?

The NATO exercise 'steadfast Defender', involving 90,000 soldiers, aims to demonstrate readiness and deter aggression by showing the capability to rapidly respond to threats against any alliance member, enhancing collective defense posture.

What are the potential consequences of the current munition disparity between Russia and Ukraine?

The disparity in munition supplies, with Russia having a significant advantage, could lead to Ukraine struggling to hold the front lines, raising the possibility of Russian breakthroughs if Ukraine cannot adequately replenish its resources.

What does the future hold for offensive operations by Ukraine according to the discussion?

While 2024 is focused on defense and consolidation, Ukraine might undertake offensive operations in other domains, such as long-range attacks, but a significant ground offensive is planned for consideration in 2025, resources permitting.