Russian Forces Gain Ground in Ukraine Amid US Military Aid and New Sanctions

Dec. 9, 2024, 3:02 am ET

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30-Second Take

  • Russian forces push back Ukrainian troops in eastern Ukraine and the Kursk region.
  • Ukraine tests its new Protector unmanned ground vehicle for various missions.
  • US plans major military aid and new sanctions on Russia.

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Quick Brief

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Essential Context

As winter sets in, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensifies, with Russian forces making gains in eastern Ukraine and the Kursk region.

The US is set to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities with significant aid, including artillery, rockets, and armored vehicles, by mid-January.

Core Players

  • Vladimir Putin – Russian President
  • Volodymyr Zelensky – Ukrainian President
  • Jake Sullivan – US National Security Adviser
  • Sergey Lavrov – Russian Foreign Minister

Key Numbers

  • 45,680 – Russian casualties in November alone.
  • 100,000+ – Ukrainian soldiers who have deserted the frontlines.
  • Tens of thousands – Planned order of Ukraine’s new Protector unmanned ground vehicles.

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The Catalyst

Russian forces are leveraging winter conditions to their advantage, using harsh weather as a weapon against Ukrainian troops.

This strategy has been effective in previous winters, exacerbating the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces.

Inside Forces

Ukraine is grappling with significant personnel shortages, with over 100,000 soldiers reported to have deserted the frontlines.

Despite these challenges, Ukraine has made strides in developing new military technology, such as the Protector unmanned ground vehicle.

Power Dynamics

The relationship between Russia and the West remains tense, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accusing the West of seeking global hegemony.

Lavrov’s comments underscore the deep-seated geopolitical tensions driving the conflict.

Outside Impact

The international community is closely watching the conflict, with NATO emphasizing the need to protect Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and air defenses.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte highlighted the importance of supporting Ukraine during NATO talks in Brussels.

Future Forces

The conflict is expected to continue into the new year, with both sides preparing for further battles.

The US and other Western allies are likely to maintain their support for Ukraine, potentially leading to increased military aid and diplomatic pressure on Russia.

Data Points

  • February 2022 – Start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
  • November 2024 – Highest monthly Russian casualties since the invasion began.
  • Mid-January 2025 – Expected delivery of US military aid to Ukraine.
  • Tens of thousands – Planned deployment of Ukraine’s new Protector UGVs.

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to shape global geopolitics, with significant implications for regional stability and international relations.