Ukrainian serviceman of the 33rd Separate Mechanised Brigade, Oleh, 49 years old, prepares a shell for an M109L self-propelled howitzer before firing towards Russian troops near a front line, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, at an undisclosed location in Donetsk region, Ukraine June 23, 2024. REUTERS/Alina Smutko/File Photo
After months of political deliberation in Washington, Western artillery supplies have finally begun to reach Ukrainian forces on the front lines, easing the pressure on troops outnumbered by Russian forces. The recent arrival of these supplies marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict.
Relief from Ammunition Shortages
During a visit by Reuters reporters to an artillery unit in the Donetsk region—a focal point of Russian advances along the 1,000-kilometer front—Ukrainian forces were observed operating their M-109 self-propelled howitzer effectively. Previously, soldiers had been forced to ration 155 mm rounds, limiting their ability to support infantry operations.
“There was ‘shell hunger.’ Ammunition was rationed quite severely. It had an impact on infantry. They [the Russians] crept from all sides, it hurt the infantrymen,” explained Vasyl, the 46-year-old unit commander. He noted that the situation has improved significantly with the new influx of supplies: “Now, there is no more ‘shell hunger,’ and we work well.”
Increased Demand and Mobilization
The demand for artillery rounds has surged since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Western allies have depleted their own stockpiles to support Ukraine, where thousands of rounds are required daily. The recent approval of a $61 billion aid package by the U.S. Congress has facilitated the arrival of fresh supplies to units like Vasyl’s.
However, ammunition is not the only concern. Oleh, a 39-year-old gunner in the same unit, highlighted a critical shortage of personnel. Ukraine has recently launched a major mobilization drive to replenish its exhausted forces. “There are very few of us. There aren’t enough people,” Oleh stated. “We do not even have half of the people we should have.”
Confidence in Ultimate Victory
Despite these challenges, Vasyl remains optimistic as he prepares the howitzer for further action. He dismisses Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent diplomatic efforts and pledges of cooperation with China and North Korea as inconsequential.
“All these talks with Korea and China, they will not help them. We will win, we shall overcome,” he asserted. “It is our spirit, it is our Ukraine, we are defending it. We shall overcome, at any price, but we will win.”
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