The United States believes the training and equipment it is providing to Ukraine will “change the dynamics on the battlefield” in the war with Russia and allow forces in Kiev to “break through Russian defences”, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told CNN.
“We’re training and equipping several mechanized infantry brigades, that’s pretty big potential,” Austin said. “We’re also giving additional artillery so they have the ability to break through Russian defenses and maneuvers, and I think that will create a different dynamic.”
As long as Ukraine conducts operations and works to regain its sovereign territory, we will be at its side,” he said. “The international community will stand with Ukraine when the fighting stops.”
Extra capacity will make a big difference, Austin said.
“I think the funds we are providing will allow the Ukrainians to start changing the dynamics on the battlefield,” he said. “And instead of a stalemate, you’ll probably see how the Ukrainians determine the course of hostilities by creating opportunities for themselves and using those opportunities.”
