Half of western military aid to Kyiv arrives late, says Ukraine’s defence minister
Ukraine
Sun 25 Feb 2024 13.10 CET
Ukraine’s defence minister, Rustem Umerov, expressed concerns about the delay in the delivery of western military aid to Kyiv. He stated that “50%” of the promised weapons and equipment failed to reach Ukraine on time, jeopardizing their efforts in the ongoing war with Russia.
Umerov revealed that amidst Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine’s armed forces have constructed new fortifications and stronghold, and have managed to reclaim some territories. However, the delay in the supply of western equipment has resulted in setbacks and casualties.
He emphasized the vital importance of timely supply of western arms, acknowledging the challenges faced without their support. He disclosed that Russia has invested $150 billion (£119 billion), equivalent to 15% of its GDP, into their assault on Ukraine. With the blocking of a US military aid package, Ukraine’s armed forces are now running low on air defence missiles and artillery shells.
The promised F-16 jets, which were supposed to arrive from an international coalition including the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium, are yet to be delivered. Umerov stressed the significance of “air superiority” in a war and stated that these jets are essential.
Amidst the delays and disadvantages, Ukraine has managed to reclaim the Black Sea using their drones to sink Russian warships. Additionally, they have regained territory in the north-east and south of the country, referring to the liberation of Kharkiv oblast and the city of Kherson in 2022.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is expected to share his vision on how Ukraine can triumph over Russia in a press conference. However, the recent loss of the eastern frontline city of Avdiivka has left a gloomier backdrop.
Umerov, a Muslim and Crimean Tatar, has been Ukraine’s defence minister since September, replacing Oleksii Reznikov. Corruption scandals within the ministry led to Reznikov’s dismissal. Umerov condemned corruption in times of war, deeming it worse than terrorism. He assured that measures to eradicate corruption within the government agencies are being taken.
Ukraine has significantly increased its drone production and is developing its own version of Russia’s Lancet drone. They have also produced several models capable of targeting strategic locations deep inside Russia. With artillery shortages, home-produced drones have become their defense’s frontline.
