US and Western Allies Say "Low Possibility of Breakthrough on Ukraine Front... Russian Defense Line Unbreachable"

"Failed to Break Through the Frontline Despite 7-8 Weeks of Counterattacks"
"Could Not Penetrate Even the First Line of Russia's Multi-layered Defense"

CNN reported that there are increasingly pessimistic forecasts regarding the outcomes of Ukraine's counteroffensive operations, primarily from the United States and Western countries. Despite the counteroffensive that has continued for the past 7 to 8 weeks, the analysis suggests that the possibility of reclaiming territory is very slim, as the Russian forces, who have established multi-layered defense lines, have not even been properly breached at their first line of defense.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

On the 8th (local time), CNN cited remarks from senior U.S. and Western officials who had just completed a briefing on the Ukraine war, pointing out that Ukraine's counteroffensive is not progressing well. Mike Quigley, a U.S. Congressman who attended the briefing, said, "The briefing we received was very sobering," adding, "This is the most difficult time during the war."

A senior Western diplomat told CNN, "The Russian forces have established multi-layered defense lines, and in reality, the Ukrainian forces have not even broken through the first line of defense," adding, "Even if the Ukrainian forces continue fighting, it is highly unlikely that they will suddenly find a breakthrough with their increasingly depleted troops, especially since they have not managed to do so despite the offensives over the past 7 to 8 weeks."

According to CNN, the Russian forces have constructed multi-layered defense lines composed of mines and trench networks along the eastern and southern fronts of Ukraine. They have also installed various missile defense systems, rendering Ukraine's ground and air operations largely ineffective.

As Ukraine's counteroffensive fails to make significant progress, CNN reported that pessimism is spreading more than optimism. With Western arms support no longer showing significant effectiveness, it is expected that pressure for a ceasefire negotiation with Ukraine will intensify rather than prolonging the war.

CNN also quoted another senior Western diplomat who expressed concern, saying, "Contrary to initial expectations, as the results of the counteroffensive become disappointing, mutual blame between Ukraine and Western supporting countries will continue," adding, "This could lead to divisions within the alliance surrounding Ukraine."

In particular, as autumn approaches?a season when tank and vehicle movement becomes very difficult in Ukraine?the period during which large-scale Ukrainian counteroffensive operations can be conducted is gradually shortening. Starting from mid-October, especially in northern Ukraine, the so-called 'Rasputitsa' phenomenon is expected to begin, where major arterial roads become trapped in mud, meaning Ukraine's counteroffensive operations are likely to continue only until before then.

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