Russia is rapidly strengthening its military presence for the conflict in Ukraine at a rate much quicker than originally anticipated by the United States, according to a top general.
Gen. Christopher Cavoli, who heads the U.S. European Command and serves as NATO’s supreme allied commander in Europe, made the remarks during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Thursday. Cavoli highlighted that Russia’s military capabilities have rebounded to pre-war levels since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, as reported by Newsweek.
“While certain segments of Russia’s Armed Forces, such as their air and land capabilities, suffered significant losses during the conflict, a substantial portion of Moscow’s military has experienced no decline in capability,” Cavoli stated before the hearing. “Russia is rebuilding its military might much faster than our initial projections indicated.”
He further noted that the size of the Russian army has expanded by approximately 15% compared to its pre-war levels. Over the past year alone, Russia has boosted its frontline troop numbers from 360,000 to 470,000.
Cavoli’s testimony underscores the urgency of the situation as Ukraine braces for a potential spring offensive from Russian forces. He emphasized the critical need for continued support to Ukraine to prevent further territorial losses.
“The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated,” Cavoli emphasized during his opening remarks. “Without ongoing assistance, Ukraine faces the risk of significant setbacks.”
In February, the Senate approved a $95 billion foreign aid package, including $60 billion earmarked for Ukraine, alongside support for Israel and Taiwan amidst escalating tensions in those regions.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has indicated plans to advance the aid bill despite resistance from some Republican lawmakers.
Cavoli also addressed the House Armed Services Committee, warning lawmakers about the devastating impact of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. He stressed the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the war-torn region, where Ukrainian forces are facing overwhelming odds against their Russian counterparts.
