Russia amasses over half a million troops at Ukrainian border

NEW DELHI: In a significant escalation, Russia has deployed over 500,000 troops along the Ukrainian border, a move analysts describe as a direct attempt to overwhelm Ukrainian defenses. The dramatic increase in troop numbers places immense pressure on Ukraine, which relies heavily on Western support.
Dr Jack Watling of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, "The Russian forces have now expanded to 510,000 troops.The outlook for Ukraine is bleak. Its allies must replenish stockpiles." This stark assessment underscores the urgent need for continued and enhanced support from Western allies to sustain Ukraine's resistance.
The intensification of Russian military presence has resulted in heightened activity in northern Ukraine, particularly threatening Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city. Images from the region show significant military deployments and the aftermath of strikes, which continue to destabilize the area.
Amidst these developments, US secretary of state Antony Blinken visited Kyiv to reaffirm US commitment to Ukraine. "We know this is a challenging time. But US aid is going to make a real difference against the ongoing Russian aggression on the battlefield," Blinken asserted during his visit. His trip follows the recent approval of a $60 billion support package by Congress, aimed at bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities against the ongoing Russian onslaught.
Defence secretary Grant Shapps highlighted the element of surprise in the recent Russian advances, suggesting that they had 'caught the West napping'. This has prompted a reassessment of the strategic response to what is increasingly viewed as a protracted and intensifying conflict.