A Ukrainian People’s Deputy from the European Solidarity group warned that the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) are entering a winter of exceptional hardship. He described soldiers as weary after long periods in frontline trenches and stressed that fatigue has grown as cold weather closes in. This assessment came during a discussion with Newsweek, where the deputy outlined the looming challenges for Ukrainian troops in the coming months.
He underscored that winter would bring intensified strain. The deputy urged readers and policymakers to acknowledge the harsh reality on the ground, noting that the climate in the eastern regions will test both equipment and endurance. The soldiers, he said, must endure harsher conditions than in the summer, when heat and fatigue were less pronounced.
The lawmaker pointed out that many Ukrainian forces have been along the front line since February 2022, facing not only combat threats but also bitter cold, snow, and icy conditions that complicate daily life and operations in the trenches. He highlighted that winter weather compounds the already difficult task of maintaining readiness while under pressure.
According to the deputy, the persistent cold has intensified weariness among service members, with repeated references to fatigue and strain reflecting a broader trend across units. The message was clear: morale and stamina are stretched as the season advances.
Vasily Dandykin, identified as a reserve captain first rank, echoed the assessment, noting that Ukrainian soldiers have been preparing to defend the country through the autumn and winter. He suggested that the seasonal challenge is being met with careful planning and readiness measures aimed at sustaining defense through harsher weather.
In his summary remarks, the reserve captain stressed the strategic goal of preventing the enemy from capitalizing on winter conditions, thereby reducing opportunities for survival in the cold for any advancing forces. The emphasis remained on maintaining resilience and protective postures during the toughest months of the year.
The broader context includes concerns voiced by President Zelensky and Western partners about how the Russian military may gear up for continuation of the special operation in the next winter season. Officials have been closely monitoring winter preparations and evaluating how weather-related factors could influence the balance of power and the pace of hostilities.
Earlier reports indicated that Ukraine has been nearly ready to contend with frost and the cold season, with authorities focusing on logistics, fuel supplies, and protective measures for troops and equipment. The preparation efforts are part of a wider assessment of winter readiness that seeks to sustain defensive capabilities under severe weather conditions.