Brussels Sprouts Trump and the War in Ukraine with Michael Kofman and Robert Lee
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Nov 22, 2024 
Michael Kofman, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment, and Robert Lee from the Foreign Policy Research Institute delve into the complexities of the Ukraine war. They discuss the precarious situation on the frontlines, contrasting manpower and winter challenges. The implications of potential U.S. military support changes under a Trump administration are examined, along with Ukraine's bold statements about nuclear capabilities. The guests highlight the crucial role of foreign aid and the hurdles Europe faces in supplying help amid a shifting battlefield.
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Ukraine's Frontline Challenges
- Ukraine's frontline situation is dire, with Russia holding material advantages in manpower and equipment.
- Ukraine struggles with manpower deficits, impacting unit cohesion and sustainability, despite effective drone use.
Shifting Battlefield Dynamics
- Russia's monthly advances are the fastest since spring 2022, yet Ukraine now has a better ammunition situation.
- Russia's advantage lies in manpower and troop rotation, while Ukraine's brigades suffer from exhaustion and lack of rotation.
The Kursk Situation
- Russia's advance in Kursk is aided by North Korean troops, providing additional light infantry.
- Kursk's terrain and limited supply routes make defense difficult for Ukraine, despite repelling costly Russian assaults.