Ukraine Conflict: Avdiivka Update
Table of Contents 📖
| Topic ID | Topic Title | Timestamp |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hello Team | 00:00-01:27⏩ |
| 2 | Avdiivka Situation Update | 01:27-18:16⏩ |
| 3 | Military Aid/International Support | 18:16-22:34⏩ |
| 4 | Wrap up | 22:34-23:06⏩ |
"We've got guys right now that are in trenches that are being hand dug with shovels kilometres and kilometres backwards - that's going to give up some serious territory."
Hello Team
🎦 00:00-01:27⏩
Jonathan introduces the video explaining that he is talking to Greg in Ukraine (his previous car partner!). There has been a lot of news about Avdiivka with heavy losses on both sides, but particularly for the Ukrainians. He's concerned as he believes some "dodgy decisions" have been made. Jonathan explains that Greg and Zhenya have contacts on the frontline who are trusted sources.
Return to top⤴️
Avdiivka Situation Update
🎦 01:27-18:16⏩
Jonathan asks Greg for his take on Avdiivka. Greg confirms that whilst Russia has lost a lot of men and equipment, Ukraine can ill afford to take losses at the current rate. Greg explains that they are hearing from trusted sources on the frontline that there are Ukrainian soldiers trapped in the Koch plant. They have been expecting Avdiivka to fall for some time, Greg believes that Ukraine has been holding out in the hope that the promised military aid would arrive. Whilst some aid has arrived (Patriots and HIMARS) it's nowhere near enough - Greg says they need 1000 times more. Jonathan agrees, adding that the situation is like Azovstal but worse as they had weeks to prepare for that. This time they have been caught out and he believes that there will be serious consequences. Jonathan highlights that Ukraine is not prepared for a withdrawal from Avdiivka - defensive positions have not been prepared, they do not have enough equipment. Greg confirms that many soldiers rely on vehicles donated by volunteers and they have lost dozens in the last 24 hours. Jonathan agrees and draws comparison with the Kherson withdrawal which went smoothly as Russia were able to use the river Dnipro as a natural defensive barrier. This time Ukraine has nothing. Greg explains that people in Ukraine are frustrated. He spoke with Zhenya earlier who was in tears as they have lost friends. Jonathan agrees - people are angry and this frustration is also being directed towards the new Ukrainian commander, General Syrsky. Greg explains that Syrsky gave the order a few days ago for Ukrainian troops not to withdraw. Jonathan and Greg agree that whilst this decision is questionable, the lack of preparation for withdrawal is not his fault and ultimately the blame lies with Zelensky and the previous leadership. Jonathan draws comparison with the situation with General Zaluzhnyi who was removed from his post and replaced by Syrsky. Zaluzhnyi was well respected and liked by Ukrainians, however they have an issue with Syrsky as he was born in Russia and his parents still live there. Greg confirms that this view is common in Ukraine - he spoke to a friend earlier who said that "they have got the wrong General - he is Russian".
Return to top⤴️
Military Aid/International Support
🎦 18:16-22:34⏩
Jonathan highlights Zelensky's speech at the Munich conference this morning where he appealed for more military support, claiming that Ukraine can win if they get it. Zelensky mentioned that whilst things in Avdiivka are bad, the kill ratios are good (1:7) but Jonathan points out that this is still too many Ukrainian losses. Greg says that they need a "good day tomorrow" - news of military aid being promised and delivered would be a good start. Jonathan agrees but adds that the latest aid package is stuck in US Congress and will not be addressed until Mid March. Greg describes this as "criminal", adding that America is the leader of the free world and needs to do more.
Return to top⤴️
Wrap up
🎦 22:34-23:06⏩
Jonathan thanks Greg for his time and insights. They agree to speak soon.
Return to top⤴️