Russia Thanks GOP in US House for Help in Territorial Gain Against Ukraine?

Okay, so there hasn’t been any official statement by Russia stating that they are grateful for GOP inaction on the Ukraine. After all, thanking Congress would be very embarrassing for the United States and Russia’s supporters in the US government. But when unboxing the situation when it comes to the Russia-Ukraine War, there is little doubt that Moscow relishes the GOP support, through inaction, for the biggest win for Russia in almost a year.

Unboxing Russia’s Big Win in Avdiivka

On February 18th, 2024, Russia claimed control of the Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, marking their most significant territorial gain in the war since capturing Bakhmut in May 2023. This development comes almost two years after the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

What happened:

• Russian forces engaged in intense fighting with Ukrainian troops in Avdiivka, a strategically important city in eastern Ukraine.
• After months of heavy bombardment and casualties on both sides, Ukrainian forces reportedly withdrew to avoid encirclement.
• Russia claims full control of the city except for a possible remaining pocket of resistance in a large coke plant.

Significance:

• This is a significant victory for Russia, boosting their morale and potentially offering a stepping stone for further advances in the Donbas region.
• For Ukraine, it’s a setback, highlighting their need for continued Western support in terms of weapons and ammunition.
• The capture could have economic implications due to Avdiivka’s coke plant, a crucial source of fuel for Ukrainian steel production.

Considerations:

• The situation remains fluid, and Ukraine may attempt to counterattack or launch offensives elsewhere.
• The long-term impact of this development on the war’s trajectory is yet to be determined.

How Did it Happen?

US aid to Ukraine has been running out for quite some time and the Biden Administration has been urgently calling on the GOP led US House to provide more funding.  As a result of US inaction, and evidence the US’s inaction cause this defeat, are seen in the following:

• Ammunition shortage: Ukrainian officials and soldiers reported low ammunition supplies, particularly artillery, which played a crucial role in defending Avdiivka. The Biden administration linked the fall of Avdiivka to congressional delays in approving a $60 billion aid package specifically aimed at replenishing these supplies.
• Ukrainian statements: President Zelenskyy himself stated that lack of Western support could lead to further territorial losses. Military officials warned that without additional funding, other areas would fall due to dwindling ammunition and air defense capabilities.
• Timing: The timing of the Russian advance coincided with congressional delays in approving the aid package. Russian forces reportedly intensified their attacks after learning about the delays, hoping to exploit weakened Ukrainian defenses.

So again, Russia isn’t openly celebrating this GOP support. But considering the lack of any significant territorial gains for Russia in almost a year, there are likely many in the Kremlin celebrating US “support.” 

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