Ukraine "Recaptures Some Areas of Kyiv"...Russia Raises Conscription Age to 65 (Comprehensive)

"Recapture of Makariv on Kyiv Outskirts... Russian Encirclement Thwarted"
Russian Conscription and Military Supplies Difficulties... Fuel Shortage Worsens

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The Ukrainian military announced that it has succeeded in recapturing the Makariyu area on the outskirts of the capital Kyiv (Kiyev). This is interpreted as the beginning of a Ukrainian counterattack in some areas due to a significant increase in Russian military casualties and worsening supply conditions.

According to the Associated Press on the 22nd (local time), the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense stated in a press release, "After fierce fighting, our forces have driven Russian troops out of Makariyu on the outskirts of Kyiv," adding, "The Ukrainian military has regained control of a key highway connecting to Kyiv, thereby preventing Russian forces from encircling the northwestern region of Kyiv."

It further emphasized, "Russian forces have occupied some suburban areas of Kyiv such as Bucha, Hostomel, and Irpin, but they still have not been able to approach the urban center." While the main Russian forces are concentrated in southern Black Sea coastal cities like Mariupol and Odesa, the stalemated northern region appears to have seen the start of a Ukrainian counteroffensive.

The U.S. foreign affairs magazine Foreign Policy, citing a U.S. Department of Defense official, reported, "With over 10% casualties among mobilized Russian troops leading to a significant drop in morale, the Ukrainian counterattack has begun. Counteroffensive operations are underway not only near Kyiv but also near Izium in the eastern Donbas region." According to Foreign Policy, Russian forces are facing severe supply difficulties, struggling with fuel supplies for tanks, fighter jets, and even the Black Sea fleet. Additionally, many soldiers are reportedly suffering from frostbite due to a lack of cold-weather gear.

It is also analyzed that Russian forces are experiencing difficulties in recruiting conscripts and securing supplies. The U.S. Institute for the Study of War (ISW), citing reports from the Ukrainian military intelligence agency (GUR), pointed out, "Russia has raised the conscription age from the previous 55 to 65 and is actively recruiting young students aged 18 and above," adding, "Due to sanctions imposed by the U.S. and the West, production of military supplies has been disrupted, exacerbating weapon shortages."

However, the situation in Mariupol, where the main Russian offensive is concentrated, is reportedly worsening. According to CNN, since the 1st, Mariupol has been bombarded by Russian forces, damaging over 80% of residential areas, and since the 4th, the city has been besieged with all electricity and water cut off. Ukrainian authorities estimate that at least 2,500 people have died in Mariupol alone so far.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.