Ukraine: The Latest Energy war forces blackouts in Russia and Ukraine amid Putin’s manpower crisis
16 snips
Nov 10, 2025 
Dr. Jack Watling, a Senior Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, shares his insights on the ongoing conflict. He analyzes how Ukraine is adapting its battlefield tactics amidst a manpower challenge. Watling highlights the strategic significance of Pokrovsk and discusses Russia's operational issues despite their aims. He also raises concerns about the European dependence on US military supplies and explores methods to counter Russia's shadow fleet. Lastly, he cautions against the threat of drone attacks on civilians.
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Tactical Squeeze Threatens Ukrainian Front
- Ukraine faces a tactical squeeze where Russia uses fires and drones to make positions too costly to hold.
- Ukraine's shrinking infantry undermines its ability to cover the long front and rotate forces effectively.
Improved Russian Lethality, Poor Infantry
- Russia has improved integration of electronic warfare, UAVs, artillery and strikes but still fields low-quality infantry.
- That leads to systemic underperformance despite greater lethality and heavy casualties for Russia.
Manpower And Economic Tipping Points
- Russia may avoid full mobilization by tweaking reserve rules, but manpower strains will bite early next year.
- Combined with intensified Ukrainian strikes and shadow-fleet pressure, Kremlin finances could fracture by mid-next year.
