Ukraine declares readiness to counterattack

Minister Reznikov affirmed that Ukraine is almost ready to launch a counterattack when conditions are favorable.

"We will counterattack as soon as God wills, the weather is favorable and the commanders make a decision," Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said on April 28, but did not announce a specific time.

"Preparations are almost over," Mr. Reznikov said. "Partners have committed, prepared and transferred part of the equipment. In general, we are very ready."

Mr. Reznikov also said that Ukraine's accession to NATO is the only option for the country's future security. "We need a system of guarantees that will make it impossible for Russia to attack," Minister Reznikov said.

Ukrainian tanks near the city of Bakhmut, Donetsk province on April 23. Photo: AP

Reznikov's comments come as Ukraine and the West have repeatedly discussed a large-scale counter-offensive to retake Russian-controlled areas. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on April 21 that Ukraine "could retake more areas" in the counter-offensive.

According to recently leaked Pentagon documents, Ukraine plans to mobilize at least 12 brigades for a counter-offensive in the eastern and southern regions. However, many US officials are concerned about the scenario of being attacked from many sides if Ukraine's counter-offensive fails or does not achieve significant results.

A report prepared in February said that “Ukraine is unlikely to achieve its objectives” in the counter-offensive. Recent reports have suggested that Ukraine may make progress in the south and east, but will not be able to repeat the success of its surprise counter-offensive in September 2022 in Kharkiv province.

However, US officials stressed that they are doing everything in their power to ensure the success of Ukraine's counter-offensive. General Christopher Cavoli, commander of US European Command (EUCOM), said the West had delivered more than 98% of the promised armored vehicles to Ukraine.

Secretary General Stoltenberg reiterated General Cavoli's information on April 27, saying that the West had transferred to Ukraine "more than 1,550 armored vehicles, 230 tanks and other equipment and a large amount of ammunition".

NATO is also training and equipping about nine new Ukrainian armored brigades, giving the country's military "a strong position to continue to take back areas controlled by Russia," according to Mr. Stoltenberg.