Former Ukraine Defense Minister: 'Shortage Of Spare Parts Hampers Ukrainian Military's Efforts In War'

According to Zagorodnyuk, the presence of mines has significantly slowed down the Ukrainian military, making it difficult for them to travel short distances quickly. He explained that there are approximately 2 million mines in the area, with intense mining in some regions. The demining process is time-consuming and requires a team of humanitarian deminers to clear newly liberated areas. However, demining in areas under fire from the Russian military is extremely difficult, and there is no magic solution to this problem.

Zagorodnyuk emphasized the importance of having a larger supply of spare parts for Ukraine's military. He stated that maintenance is currently a huge issue and having more spares and supplies, as well as the ability to manufacture them domestically, would greatly improve the situation. In January, the U.S. agreed to send 31 M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, while Germany and Poland committed to sending Leopard tanks. However, the different makes and models, along with the different spares from different countries, have created a logistical nightmare.

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July 31, 2023

The former defense minister also discussed the lack of contingency plans for aviation in the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Conversations regarding the acquisition of F-16s were still ongoing, and it was not clear when they would be delivered. While F-16s would provide long-range firepower and allow for more NATO-centric planning operations, Zagorodnyuk acknowledged that the current war in Ukraine is unprecedented, and there are no rule books written for this type of warfare.

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Bryan Stern, a former counterintelligence officer and founder of Project Dynamo, echoed Zagorodnyuk's concerns. He criticized the U.S. for not providing the necessary training and support for Ukrainian tank warfare, which relies on tanks and close air support working together. Stern argued that by not following their own rulebook and providing Ukraine with the tools they need for joint integrated fires, the U.S. risks wasting the tanks they have provided.