The new commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces: “We will launch a new counterattack later this year” | Ukraine-Russia war

In a television interview with the Ukrainian Public Broadcasting Corporation, Pavlyuk said that the situation on the front is “difficult, but under control.” According to the leader, Moscow has tried in recent months to achieve as much progress as possible in the period leading up to the Russian presidential elections, which begin next Friday. At this time, Russian forces will be mainly concentrated in and around the eastern cities of Avdiivka and Liman, and the northeastern city of Khasiv Yar.

Pavlyuk stressed that Ukrainians will not be discouraged. “Our mission is to stabilize the front line, kill as many Russians as possible – which we are doing – and regroup so that units that need help can withdraw,” he said.

Although British Army Commander Tony Radakin recently claimed that Kiev may not be able to launch a new counteroffensive until next year, Pavlyuk expects the army to respond this year. Last summer, the Ukrainians launched a counterattack, but it failed. Since Russia's seizure of Advivka, there has been almost no doubt that Moscow has the upper hand.

“Despite the intense fighting, our men continue to hold their positions,” Pavlyuk said. “The enemy's losses are enormous. I believe that we will quickly stabilize the situation and do everything in our power to prepare the forces for more active operations where we can take the initiative.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed 53-year-old Pavlyuk as commander of the Ground Forces in early February. Pavlyuk previously served as Deputy Defense Minister and replaces Oleksandr Sirsky, who is now the Supreme Commander of the Ukrainian Army.