As Russia continues its attacks, Ukraine is urgently trying to dig enough trenches for defense while also appealing for air defenses, specifically Patriot missiles, from its allies. The country is facing a soldier shortage as the initial surge of volunteers has diminished over the years of conflict. Additionally, a recent terror attack claimed by the Islamic State has sparked a blame game between Moscow and Kyiv.
Ukraine's patriotic fervor has dwindled as a year of grueling attrition warfare has stripped much of the glamor away from combat service, forcing the military to rely heavily on conscription. Those drafted in that process are often inexperienced. Ukraine has created around a dozen new attack brigades with estimates of 40,000 additional troops ready to force the Russians back towards their own border. The Ukrainian government appears to be pushing many men and women to the limit, and some have even complained about getting mobilization notices as “punishments” for minor infractions, such as bar fights or being caught outside after curfew.
