Ukrainian soldiers are reportedly resorting to using small drones for attacks against Russian forces due to shortages in artillery ammunition, according to The Wall Street Journal. The article highlights that Ukraine can only respond with one or two salvos for every five fired by Russian artillery. In an effort to counter this challenge, Ukrainian forces are employing First Person View (FPV) drones, obtained from commercial vendors, which are remotely controlled and can be equipped with explosives for combat purposes.
Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s minister of digital transformation, explained that the increased reliance on FPV drones is a consequence of the shortage of artillery shells. However, he emphasized that drones cannot entirely replace the role of traditional artillery. These drones, fitted with explosives, are guided to their targets and are noted for their accuracy compared to artillery but are limited in the extent of damage they can inflict.
Despite adapting to battlefield challenges, the Institute for the Study of War in Washington, DC, noted that Ukraine’s forces are still struggling to fully compensate for equipment shortages. The deadlock between Russian and Ukrainian forces spans a front line from the east to the south of Ukraine. Last year’s Ukrainian counteroffensive to push back Russian forces largely failed, leaving Ukrainian forces grappling with manpower and equipment shortages as they attempt to thwart further Russian advances.
The article also mentions that a new US aid package to Ukraine has faced opposition from House Republicans, who argue for increased spending on US border security. Simultaneously, a European Union aid package is stalled by Hungary. Shalanda Young, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, expressed concerns at a January 5 White House briefing, stating that Ukraine faces challenges not only in funding its war effort but also in maintaining government services unless Congress unblocks the aid. Young emphasized the broader global implications, questioning the message sent to the world if the United States does not actively support Ukraine in countering Russian aggression.
