“It is very clear that Ukraine is now taking the lead, which marks a new stage. Especially if they can hold the initiative for a long time and make progress there too.’ So says defense specialist Peter Wijninga of the Center for Strategic Studies in The Hague. According to the American news channel ABC News, the long-awaited counteroffensive has finally begun. “But Kiev continues to be silent,” Wijninga said.
In recent months, much attention has been paid to the long-awaited counter-offensive. ‘I can well imagine that Zelensky and his staff want to keep all their attention on that offensive. Because it’s a matter of going up or down,’ says Wijninga.
But there is now also much attention for the humanitarian disaster following the destruction of the Kakhovka dam earlier this week. “An extra headache,” says Wijninga. “Especially if there is an offensive.”
However, according to Wijninga, the Ukrainians have taken this scenario into account. «It was already rumored that the dam could be blown up in October last year. I don’t think they had anything planned there either. They are clearly in the east, near Bachmoet, still very active and in other places as well. It is very clear that Ukraine is now taking the lead, which heralds a new phase, especially if it can hold the lead for a long time and make progress there.”
“It is very clear that Ukraine is now taking the lead”
Extra support for Ukraine
Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Minister Liesje Schreinemacher calls the humanitarian disaster in Nova Kachovka “terrible”. In the coming days we will look at what else the Netherlands can do. “Humanitarian aid, such as food, baby food, tents, boats and medicines, is especially needed,” says Wijninga.
Source: BNR
Sharon Rock is an author and journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. She has a passion for learning about different cultures and understanding the complexities of the world. With a talent for explaining complex global issues in an accessible and engaging way, Sharon has become a respected voice in the field of world news journalism.
