Ukraine is once again strengthening its position in the war against Russia, and according to experts, its victory is becoming increasingly likely. In an article for The Telegraph, former Norwegian military attaché to Ukraine Hans Petter Midttun expressed his belief that the situation on the front is changing in favor of Kyiv, and that Ukrainian armed forces can achieve success in confronting the Russian aggressors.
A particularly important factor that Midttun believes could change the course of the war is the Ukrainian offensive in Russia’s Kursk region. The operation, which began in early August, has already liberated more than 1,000 square kilometers of territory, and that’s just the beginning. The creation of a military commandant’s office under Major General Eduard Moskalev is a clear signal that the Ukrainian army intends to consolidate its gains in the region and continue to put pressure on Russian forces.
One of Ukraine's key strengths, Midttun notes, is its ability to scale up its defense industry with the support of Western partners. At the same time, Russia has already reached its production peak and is facing serious problems, including a labor shortage estimated at 4.8 million people. The desperate situation is forcing Moscow to enlist teenagers, the elderly, and even prisoners in the war.
In addition, Western sanctions have significantly limited Russia's ability to produce and develop high-tech weapons. This means that Russia is gradually depleting its stockpiles of old equipment and its ability to maintain military potential is shrinking.
Midttun emphasizes that Ukraine is actively using technological innovations to counter Russia's numerical superiority. Thanks to Western support, Kyiv is gradually defeating Moscow, although this process takes time. Ammunition production in Ukraine, the United States and Europe is increasing, and restrictions on the use of Western weapons are gradually being lifted, allowing Ukrainian forces to carry out strikes deep into Russia.
The cost of war for Russia is becoming increasingly prohibitive. As of August 16, 2024, the total losses of Russian troops in Ukraine are approximately 596,950 people. In particular, during small territorial advances in eastern Ukraine, the Russians have suffered huge losses, which only emphasizes the high costs that Russia is incurring in its aggressive campaign
