As Ukraine enters the third year of its conflict with Russia, the grim reality faced by its 59th Brigade infantry becomes increasingly apparent: they are outnumbered, outgunned, and ground down.

With casualties mounting and resources dwindling, Ukrainian soldiers find themselves struggling to hold the line against their better-equipped adversaries.

The toll of the conflict is starkly evident, with only a fraction of the brigade’s initial manpower remaining, either killed, wounded, or sidelined due to various reasons.

“The most immediate problem in every unit is lack of people,” lamented a company commander within the brigade known by his call sign “Limuzyn,” highlighting the dire situation faced by Ukrainian forces on the frontlines.

Modern tech

The conflict, characterised by trench warfare reminiscent of World War One combined with modern drone technology, has seen Russia steadily gaining ground in recent months.

The taking of Avdiivka in the Donetsk region over the weekend marked a significant victory for Russian forces, further underscoring the challenges faced by Ukrainian defenders.

Despite their resolve to resist Russian occupation, Ukrainian soldiers voiced concerns over the mounting difficulties of confronting a larger and better-supplied adversary.

Calls for increased military support from the West, echoed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, have yet to fully materialise, leaving Ukrainian forces increasingly vulnerable.

Meat assaults

The relentless assaults by Russian troops, described by one Ukrainian commander as “meat assaults,” pose a significant threat to Ukrainian defenses, straining resources and taking a toll on morale.

With inadequate ammunition and dwindling supplies, Ukrainian soldiers find themselves at a severe disadvantage against the onslaught.

Meanwhile, Russia’s dominance extends beyond sheer numbers, with significant investments in drone technology allowing for strategic advantages on the battlefield.

The proliferation of drones has rendered traditional fortified positions vulnerable, forcing Ukrainian troops to adapt to a rapidly evolving battlefield.