The Gist Ryan Evans on Drones, Ground War, and Ukraine’s Fight for Survival
Sep 10, 2025
Ryan Evans, CEO and founder of War on the Rocks, provides an insightful analysis of the Ukraine conflict and the pivotal role of drones in modern warfare. He discusses the impact of morale and leadership, particularly focusing on President Zelensky's challenges. The conversation touches on Russia's drone incursions into Poland and NATO’s geopolitical responses. Evans also sheds light on the complex dynamics of ground warfare and the essential resources Ukraine still needs to sustain its fight.
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Drones Versus The Real Determinants
- Drones shape headlines but not the core of the ground war.
- The decisive factors are manpower, munitions, and reconstitution capacity.
Mobilization Choices Shape The Front
- Ukraine's political decision not to mobilize youth limits its offensive potential.
- That choice leaves older, experienced soldiers holding a defensive line while territory slowly erodes.
City Strikes Are Terror, Not Strategy
- Russia's strikes on cities aim to terrorize civilians and force submission.
- That terror campaign has so far failed to break Ukrainian resolve.