By Gloria Ogbonna
Ukraine faces a critical window of just over 30 days to push forward with its counter-offensive before adverse weather conditions hinder its progress, according to General Mark Milley, the highest-ranking US military officer.
Speaking on the BBC’s “Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg” program, Gen. Milley acknowledged that the offensive had progressed more slowly than anticipated but emphasized that heavy fighting continued.
Gen. Milley explained that colder weather would significantly impede Ukraine’s ability to maneuver effectively. He noted that Ukraine was making steady progress through Russian front lines and that it was premature to declare the counter-offensive a failure.
He stated, “There’s still a reasonable amount of time, probably about 30 to 45 days’ worth of fighting weather left, so the Ukrainians aren’t done. There’s battles not done… they haven’t finished the fighting part of what they’re trying to accomplish.”
Despite the counter-offensive’s challenges and modest gains, Gen. Milley underscored the nature of the conflict, describing it as “long, slow, hard, and high-casualty-producing.”
In the same interview, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the UK Chief of Defence Staff, expressed confidence in Ukraine’s progress, stating, “Ukraine is winning, and Russia is losing.” He emphasized that Russia’s goal had been to subjugate Ukraine, which had not occurred and would not happen. He further noted that Ukraine had reclaimed 50% of the territory seized by Russia, partly due to international economic and diplomatic pressure on Russia.
Adm. Radakin also commented on Russia’s alliance with North Korea, suggesting that it reflected Russian desperation and a dwindling list of international partners. He pointed out that Russia’s economy was under strain, sanctions were taking a toll, and significant numbers of people were leaving the country.
Regarding former President Donald Trump, Gen. Milley affirmed the US military’s allegiance to the Constitution. When asked if the military would serve a commander-in-chief in jail, he stated, “We take our oath to a document, the Constitution of the United States of America.” He emphasized that the military would faithfully uphold the Constitution, irrespective of the occupant of the White House.
Gen. Milley also dismissed the possibility of entering politics, humorously remarking that he would “run for best grandad” upon his retirement in a few weeks.