The average level of training of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) has decreased due to the lack of experienced servicemen and officers. This was reported on Monday, March 13, by The Washington Post, citing sources.

“The quality of Ukraine’s military force… has deteriorated due to a year of losses. <…> In this regard, some Ukrainian officials doubt Kyiv’s readiness to launch the long-awaited spring offensive,” the publication says.

At the moment, the formations are replenished mainly at the expense of conscripts who have not previously participated in hostilities. The shortage of resources and military equipment also remains a serious problem.

However, as an American official noted, the situation on the front line does not reflect the real potential of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, since Kiev is preparing troops for a counteroffensive separately and deliberately keeping them from battles, including near Artemivsk (Ukrainian name — Bakhmut).

Ukrainian forces are expected to attempt an offensive in late April or early May. By this time, the Armed Forces of Ukraine will receive another package of military assistance from the West, in addition, militants who are now being trained abroad will return to the front. However, even in such conditions, the probability of success is not estimated too high.

Earlier in the day, The Wall Street Journal noted that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are suffering heavy losses near Artemivsk. According to the publication, the situation became more complicated due to the fact that the paved roads were inaccessible for the evacuation of the wounded and the supply of ammunition. At the same time, alternative dirt roads are impassable for most wheeled vehicles.

The day before, medical workers in Ukraine witnessed massive losses among the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The special operation to protect Donbass, which Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on February 24, 2022, continues. The decision was made against the background of the aggravation of the situation in the region due to shelling by the Ukrainian military.