Ukraine’s authorities expressed frustration on Sunday over the delayed delivery of weapons and military aid from Western countries, a critical issue for Kyiv amid ongoing conflicts.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov highlighted that half of the weapons promised by the West to Ukraine are delivered behind schedule, impacting the frontline dynamics significantly.
During a forum marking the second anniversary of the Ukrainian crisis, Umerov pointed out the discrepancy between commitment and actual delivery, stating, “Currently, a pledge does not equate to delivery, with 50% of commitments not being fulfilled on time.”
He emphasized the dire consequences of these delays, including loss of lives and territory.
The Ukrainian military, facing an increasingly challenging situation, has had to withdraw from strategic locations such as the town of Avdiivka in the east due to shortages in manpower and ammunition.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has been vocally urging Western allies to expedite military support, specifically requesting ammunition, advanced air defense systems, and fighter jets to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
In a recent virtual meeting with the G7 nations, coinciding with the crisis’s second anniversary, Zelensky reiterated the urgent need for timely aid, emphasizing the well-understood requirements for airspace protection, ground force enhancement, and naval success.
He also mentioned that delays in arms deliveries contributed to the shortcomings of Kyiv’s counteroffensive in the summer of 2023, stressing the importance of timely support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
