The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has taken a disturbing turn, as the White House accuses Russia of executing its own retreating soldiers. According to the US, Russian casualties near Avdiivka were inflicted “on the orders of their own leaders.” This revelation sheds light on the brutal tactics employed by Russia in the conflict, and raises concerns about the escalating violence and human rights violations in the region.
The battle for Avdiivka has been raging since mid-October, with both Russian and Ukrainian forces locked in a fierce confrontation. While Russia is believed to have suffered “significant” losses, Ukrainian estimates put the number of Russian casualties in Avdiivka at a staggering 5,000. The US also claims that Russia lost “at least” 125 armoured vehicles and a substantial amount of equipment.
The situation has reached a critical point, as Russian troops are refusing to attack Ukrainian positions due to heavy losses, leading to mutinies within some units. This highlights the questionable state of Russia’s mobilized forces, which are described as “under-trained, under-equipped, and unprepared for combat” by National Security Council spokesman John Kirby. The Russian military’s reliance on mass infantry tactics, known as “human wave,” has resulted in poorly trained soldiers being sent into battle without proper equipment, leadership, or support. It is no wonder that Russian forces are suffering from poor morale.
The strategic importance of Avdiivka cannot be underestimated. Its capture would allow Russian troops to push the front line back, making it increasingly difficult for Ukrainian forces to make further advances into the Donetsk region. As a result, the Ukrainian army is facing immense pressure to defend Avdiivka against the relentless pounding by Russian forces. However, the town has been almost entirely abandoned by its 30,000 residents, who have been forced to flee the brutal conflict.
In response to the escalating situation, the US has announced a new $150 million military assistance package for Ukraine. This includes artillery, small-arms ammunition, and anti-tank weapons. However, the future of aid to Ukraine remains uncertain with the election of Republican Mike Johnson as speaker of the US House of Representatives. Johnson, a staunch conservative, has voiced his opposition to further US aid to Ukraine and has supported amendments to block it.
The US has been the largest military donor to Ukraine, having already spent over $46 billion, as well as providing significant financial and humanitarian aid. The potential reduction or halt of US assistance raises serious concerns about the ability of Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression.
The revelation of Russia’s brutal tactics in the Ukraine war has generated shock and outrage. It highlights the need for international intervention and accountability for the escalating violence and human rights violations taking place. The international community must come together to condemn these actions and provide support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Failure to do so will result in further suffering for the people of Ukraine and potentially destabilize the region even more.
