By C. Perera, JadeTimes News
As summer begins in Ukraine, the situation is becoming increasingly perilous. Kharkiv, the country's second largest city located in the northeast near Russia, is largely defenseless against air attacks. Recently, two guided bombs destroyed a DIY superstore and garden center, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more. Andrii Kudenov, a nearby store manager, expressed his despair, noting the store was filled with civilians shopping for gardening supplies.
The garden center attack is one of many recent strikes in the northeast, as well as on the eastern and southern fronts. Ukraine's defense relies heavily on Western allies, whose decisions are crucial for cities like Kharkiv. Russia's military has adapted, exploiting Ukrainian weaknesses, particularly in air defenses, while producing more weapons and ammunition than the Western economies supporting Ukraine. The initial hopes of driving Russia back have given way to a grim struggle to prevent further advances, with no end in sight.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expected a quick victory with the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Both the Kremlin and NATO anticipated Russia would swiftly complete its 2014 objectives. However, Ukraine's improved armed forces exceeded expectations, compelling NATO to provide increased support. Despite US President Joe Biden's initial reservations about escalating the conflict, retired NATO F-16 fighter jets were eventually approved for Ukraine. Ukraine's defense remains hindered by its dependence on external support and restricted use of Western-supplied weapons. Efforts to break Russian lines with Western-trained forces and equipment failed due to robust Russian defenses and lack of air cover.
Domestically, the US faced political challenges in approving additional aid for Ukraine. Delays in funding, coupled with Russia's rampedup production, underscore a prolonged conflict. Despite sanctions, Russia's economy has adapted, finding new markets for its resources and support from allies like Iran and North Korea. China, while not providing lethal aid, materially contributes to Russia's war effort, reinforcing its defense industries.
In Kharkiv's borderlands, civilians like Vika Pisna, a psychologist, evacuate front-line villages threatened by Russian advances. As Russia pushes to establish a buffer zone near Belgorod, Ukraine is forced to bolster defenses in the Kharkiv sector, creating vulnerabilities elsewhere. Ukraine's air defenses struggle to intercept Russian missiles, evident in a recent attack on a Kharkiv print factory, killing seven. Local police head Volodymyr Tymoshko criticized the lack of advanced systems like the Patriot air defense. Civilians like Olena Lupak, injured in the attack, express their helplessness and gratitude for international support.
Despite Ukraine's hardships, it continues to innovate with new forms of drone warfare, reopening export routes through the Black Sea. As Russia intensifies its efforts, Ukraine and its allies brace for a challenging summer. The strategic balance remains precarious, with both sides enduring significant losses and adapting tactics for a protracted conflict.