Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar stated today, Tuesday, that merely proving Ukraine's ability to repel the better-armed and numerically superior Russian enemy represents progress in its counter-offensive. However, Malyar dismissed any suggestion that Kyiv's advances have been too slow, asserting that Ukraine has effectively challenged military norms by attacking an adversary with a numerical superiority in personnel and weaponry. Malyar told "Reuters" in an interview, "It is incorrect to measure this progress in meters or kilometers... What matters is that despite everything, we are making progress even though we have fewer personnel and arms."
She added that she is not aware of any Western pressures on the Ukrainian army to expedite operations, expressing skepticism about the idea of a globally "correct" pace. Malyar highlighted the brutal attrition in the war, especially in eastern Ukraine, stating that Russian forces, which are also superior in air power, can fire between 400,000 to 500,000 artillery shells each week, approximately ten times what Ukraine can manage. She acknowledged the vital role of Western military assistance in the war, saying, "It goes without saying that parity with them (the Russians) requires this assistance."
Ukraine, equipped with Western tanks and infantry fighting vehicles, has recaptured several villages, though this does not include larger population centers. The onset of rainy and cold weather beginning in October may complicate battlefield operations.
Malyar, a war crimes attorney, has held the position of Deputy Defense Minister since 2021 and has consistently provided updates on the latest developments in battles since last year's Russian invasion. Earlier today, she mentioned that Ukrainian forces have established a foothold in the village of Robotyne in the southeastern part of the country along the road leading to the occupied railway center of Tokmak, which would represent an important stage in Kyiv's advance southward toward the Sea of Azov. The next urban center is the large regional city of Melitopol.
The German Foreign Minister stated today that Ukraine needs more assistance to breach Russian minefields, and Berlin is discussing with partners how to meet Kyiv's requests for additional equipment. Malyar asserted that the counter-offensive should not be compared to Ukraine's rapid recapture of territories in the Kharkiv region in eastern Ukraine last year or its success in driving Russian forces out of the southwestern city of Kherson, as each battle has its unique circumstances.
