US morale “remains particularly problematic” within the military, the Department of Defense (MoD) said. As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues, the Foreign Ministry has said that cases of military units “refusing orders” continue. The ministry added that the drivers of “low morale” had suffered “heavy losses” and “continued poor logistics” in the Russian armed forces. “Ukrainian forces have probably suffered casualties in recent weeks, but Russian morale is very likely to remain very problematic. “There are still cases of entire Russian units denying orders and armed confrontations between officers and their troops,” the ministry said.
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“Drivers for low Russian morale include perceived poor leadership, limited opportunities to switch units off the battlefield, very heavy losses, battle stress, ongoing poor logistics, and pay problems. “Many Russian officials at all levels are also likely to remain confused about the aims of the war,” he said. “Ethical problems in Russian power are probably so significant that they limit Russia’s ability to achieve operational goals.” Despite invading the country almost four months ago, Russia has failed to secure its main military targets. In recent weeks, fighting has intensified around the city of Sheverodonetsk. Many Ukrainians have taken refuge in the Azot city chemical plant, while the last bridge leading out of the city was destroyed during the week. After visiting Ukraine on Friday, Boris Johnson warned that the West could not stop supporting the state in its war against Russia. He acknowledged, however, that the war would be prolonged as Russia embarked on a “campaign of destruction”. “The United Kingdom and our friends must respond by ensuring that Ukraine has the strategic stamina to survive and ultimately prevail,” he said. “Everything will depend on whether Ukraine will be able to strengthen its ability to defend its territory faster than Russia can renew its ability to attack. “Our task is to spend time on the side of Ukraine.” Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Mr Johnson added: “Our concern is that a little bit of fatigue in Ukraine is starting to show up around the world. “It is important to show that we are with them for a long time and to provide the strategic resilience they need.”
