Zelensky cautions against creating a deliberate scarcity of weapons as it only benefits Putin.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has urged allies to help plug Ukraine’s “artificial deficit of weapons” just hours after his military chief announced a withdrawal from the eastern city of Avdiivka, which Kyiv has been struggling to hold for months.

Speaking to global leaders, diplomats, and military personnel gathered at the Munich Security Conference, President Zelensky cautioned that Russia’s incursion into Ukraine posed a threat not only to Europe but also to every nation, as it was a “war that disregards all rules”.

In his opening speech at the annual German conference, considered the largest global forum for discussing security policy, he stated that depriving Ukraine of necessary weapons, specifically in the areas of artillery and long range capabilities, allows Putin to adjust to the current level of warfare. There have been setbacks in Western assistance to Ukraine, particularly in terms of military aid from the US, in recent months.

“At present, Russia only possesses one distinct advantage: the utter disregard for human life. The ongoing attacks by Russian forces serve as evidence of this,” stated Mr. Zelensky.

He stated that Ukrainians have demonstrated their ability to compel Russia to withdraw, referring to the progress made in the northern, eastern, and southern regions of Ukraine.

It is possible for us to regain our land, resulting in Putin’s defeat. This has occurred multiple times on the battlefield.

He stated that our abilities are restricted solely by the adequacy and extent of our power, while referencing the conditions in Avdiivka.

Earlier on Saturday, Ukrainian commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi announced that he was removing troops from the devastated city in order to protect their lives. The soldiers were in danger of being surrounded and isolated. Despite being outnumbered, Ukrainian forces have been fighting against a harsh Russian attack for a period of four months.

The Independent was informed by Ukrainian diplomats that their country is facing a significant disadvantage in terms of military equipment, with a ratio of one to six in certain regions. As a result, they are forced to limit the use of artillery, putting their soldiers’ lives in danger.

Ukrainian commanders have referred to the front lines as “the meat grinder”. In interviews with The Independent, they have described how Moscow is continuously sending an endless stream of soldiers to the conflict, while Russian commanders use tactics to overpower Ukrainian units, comparing them to “zombies”.

President Zelensky mentioned the significant number of Russian casualties, implying that Moscow’s attack on the Avdiivka bar resulted in little success and a significant loss of soldiers, depleting their army by thousands.

“We are currently anticipating the arrival of weapons that we are lacking,” he remarked, alluding to a shortage of long-range weapons. “This is why our soldiers and our people serve as our primary weapons today.”

Just one day after Russia declared the passing of notable political opponent Alexei Navalny, who was detained in a prison in the Arctic Circle, he delivered his speech.

The leader of Ukraine participated in a conference in Germany this weekend, along with about 60 other world leaders. Before attending the conference, he made quick visits to Berlin and Paris, where he signed agreements with Germany and France for long-term bilateral security. This follows a similar agreement made with Britain last month.

European countries that support Ukraine are urging the United States Congress to pass a proposal that includes $60 billion in aid for Ukraine. This money would mainly be used by US defense organizations to produce missiles, ammunition, and other military equipment for use in Ukraine’s battles. However, House Republicans, especially those who support Trump, are opposing this package.

At the Munich conference, Jens Stoltenberg, the secretary-general of Nato, expressed concern about the decline in the supply of US weapons and ammunition due to Congress’s delay, which has had a direct impact on the front line.

He stated that each passing week increases the likelihood of more casualties on the front line in Ukraine.

The prime minister of Estonia, Kaja Kallas, expressed concerns about a possible invasion from Russia due to their direct border. She cautioned that any additional delays could endanger global security.

She cautioned that if the United States continues to isolate itself, it will ultimately result in higher costs. She also pointed out that if aggression is successful in one situation, it sets a precedent for its use elsewhere, putting global security at risk.

Bronwen Maddox, the leader of Chatham House, a British think tank, is currently at the conference. According to The Independent, the topic of increasing American isolation, regardless of who holds the presidency, has been a focal point of conversations throughout the conference.

She stated that during the discussion, there has been an effort to emphasize to the US that Russia’s impact is not limited to Europe, but also affects the US and everyone else.

The upcoming US election and the potential victory of Donald Trump caused concern at the conference. Supporters of the ex-president from the Republican party have shown increasing doubt towards providing funds for a conflict in Eastern Europe.

President Zelensky admitted that he was ready to reveal the true extent of the war by personally escorting Mr. Trump to the front lines.

He expressed his willingness to join Mr. Trump on the front lines during the conference, saying, “If we discuss ending the war, we must show decision-makers the true impact of this conflict, rather than just what is portrayed on Instagram.”

During his speech, Mr. Zelensky emphasized that the ongoing war in Europe posed a threat to everyone and urged the world not to forget it.

He stated, “This conflict has implications beyond just Ukraine and Europe. It is Russia’s disregard for any kind of rules.”

Source: independent.co.uk