Russia Claims to Have Thwarted Significant Ukrainian Drone Offensive Amid Rising Worries Over Weapons Supply

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The Russian Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday that its air defense systems intercepted 31 Ukrainian drones during a nocturnal operation near the border areas. This incident marks the largest reported drone incursion by Ukraine since Russia initiated its military invasion 20 months ago.

The ministry did not furnish corroborative evidence for its declarations, nor did it elaborate on the extent of the damages or potential casualties incurred.

Additionally, Russian forces reportedly foiled a Ukrainian naval operation aimed at deploying a contingent of troops to the western flank of the Crimean Peninsula, annexed by Russia in 2014. The Ukrainian forces purportedly attempted a landing at Cape Tarkhankut using a high-speed boat and a trio of jet skis, according to the Russian authorities.

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It should be noted that the veracity of Russia’s allegations cannot be independently confirmed, and Ukrainian officials have not issued any immediate comments in response.

The Crimean Peninsula, annexed unlawfully by Russia in 2014, has recurrently been the subject of Ukrainian military actions and serves as a critical operational center supporting the invasion.

As Ukraine persists in a gradually advancing counteroffensive launched three months prior, concerns are amplifying regarding the availability of future arms and munitions from its Western allies.

Admiral Rob Bauer, chair of NATO’s Military Committee, expressed concerns over diminishing stockpiles of weapons and ammunition. Speaking at the Warsaw Security Forum, an annual conference, he stated, “The bottom of the barrel is now visible.” Bauer called on the defense industry to escalate production rates significantly, emphasizing the need for “large volumes.”

The U.S. Department of Defense has also alerted Congress about its dwindling resources required for replacing the arms sent to Ukraine.

Uncertainty regarding Kyiv’s allied support has been further exacerbated by recent political upheaval in the United States, particularly following the unprecedented removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Tuesday. The development has led to increased opposition, notably among House Republicans and a segment of GOP voters, to extend further military assistance to Ukraine.

This has prompted U.S. President Joe Biden to convene a telephonic discussion on Tuesday with major European allies, as well as Canadian and Japanese leaders, to align support measures for Ukraine. This call took place merely three days after President Biden ratified an emergency Congressional bill that ensured continued federal funding but conspicuously omitted billions intended for Ukraine’s military campaign, which the White House had strongly advocated.

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