Ammunition shortages will likely deter Russian offensive - ISW

The Russian defense industry is not able to replenish ammunition stocks in time, which will make it difficult for the invaders to carry out an offensive in Ukraine.

According to Ukrinform, the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War said this in a Russian offensive campaign assessment for January 11.

"The Russian defense industrial base's inability to address munitions shortages will likely hinder the ability of Russian forces to sustain offensive operations in eastern Ukraine in 2023," ISW said.

It added that difficulties with Russia's replenishment of ammunition are being discussed not only in Ukraine and the United States, but also in Russia itself.

"Russian forces achieved some victories in the first stages of the invasion due to Russia's rapid use of its manpower and reliance on artillery superiority, and the Kremlin's inability to replace expended personnel and munitions may further undermine its ability to wage protracted combat," the think tank said.

U.S. and Ukrainian officials told CNN on January 10 that Russia's daily rate of artillery fire has decreased in some areas by 75%, a historic low since the start of the Russian full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022.