Challenges for Ukraine in the Counter-Offensive

2min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

American officials lack combat experience in the kind of war being waged in Ukraine, and the Ukrainian army's attrition and lack of experienced officers hinder their ability to fight in a sophisticated way. The counter-offensive has made progress but faces limitations with the small unit approach. Ukraine will likely need to deploy its armored forces to exploit gaps in the line, but will face tactical problems and need to overcome coordination and artillery suppression challenges.

As progress on the front line slows, Western countries are divided over how the army should proceed. There are disagreements about where should be targeted and how, and with autumn around the corner, time is of the essence. Why Americans’ feelings about their economy have become a less useful indicator for forecasters (12:34). And, are New Zealand’s rugby team off their game (18:24)?

Sign up for Economist Podcasts+ now and get 50% off your subscription with our limited time offer. You will not be charged until Economist Podcasts+ launches.

Visit http://www.economist.com/podcastsplus-intelligence to join.

If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.

For more information about Economist Podcasts+, including how to get access, please visit our FAQs page.