Weather woes: How snow and rain could stall Russian advance
In Ukraine, snow and rain are expected to fall soon, presenting challenges for the Russian Federation's army in using drones, according to Major Dmytro Kozhubenko of the Ukrainian National Guard in a discussion with the Ukrainian channel TSN.
The Russians are aware that a weather change in Ukraine is imminent, which will complicate the delivery of vehicles to the front line. This awareness is reflected in the behaviour of the aggressor's army, which, according to the Ukrainian military, is increasingly engaging its logistics in operations.
Russia knows what to expect
Russia knows the upcoming rains will soon soften the ground in Donbas, making it difficult to advance with heavy equipment. According to Kozhubenko, they are now intensifying their efforts in specific areas, moving armoured vehicles to transport their infantry forces.
The military official notes that changing weather conditions, such as snow and rain, will primarily hinder the Russian Federation's road movement. This means that armoured vehicles cannot regularly deliver equipment to personnel stationed at distant positions within Ukrainian territory. Additionally, the weather will limit the use of drones.
Kozhubenko emphasizes that military operations will persist while the Russians face weather-related challenges in Ukraine. This is mainly due to the resilience of the Russian Federation’s infantry. Although the infantry will reach Ukrainian positions, their progress may be slower. However, the aggressor will not halt. – As long as Russia does not run out of "cannon fodder," they will continue their attacks – summarized the Ukrainian official.
Challenging weather conditions
Experts have often highlighted issues related to the adverse weather conditions for the Russians, such as the poor state of tires on Russian vehicles. Additionally, the mud at the front negatively impacts the condition of firearms and heavy equipment, including howitzers. Adverse weather (rain, snow, mud) could cause weapons to jam and, in extreme cases, lead to complete damage, necessitating their removal from use.
However, it should be noted that mud and snow in Ukraine do not significantly impair tracked vehicles. The defending army demonstrated this 2023, recording how the Polish Krab self-propelled howitzer operates effectively on the front during winter.
