During an intense five-hour battle, Ukrainian forces inflicted heavy losses on Russian forces, destroying 20 armoured vehicles and 12 artillery pieces. This engagement reportedly occurred on April 11, 2024, according to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence. The Ukrainian 82nd Air Assault Brigade played a key role in this counteroffensive, utilizing Marder and Stryker fighting vehicles and Challenger 2 tanks.

Simultaneously, Russia has significantly escalated its use of advanced weaponry, deploying FAB-1500 “building destroyer” glide bombs against Ukrainian defensive positions. These 1,500 kilogram winged bombs have been used extensively, particularly in regions like Kharkiv and along the border, causing substantial damage and putting Ukraine’s air defenses under severe strain. Ukrainian responses have been limited due to shortages in weapons and ammunition.

Furthermore, a report from The Guardian highlighted the mass deployment of up to 500 guided bombs per week by Russia, utilizing foreign components from countries such as China, Thailand, and Turkey despite Western sanctions. These guided bombs, enhanced with UMPC guiding systems, have been crucial for Russia to strike strategic targets while avoiding Ukrainian air defenses.

The involvement of heavyweight defensive equipment and advanced offensive munitions indicates a severe escalation in the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian officials have expressed an urgent need for increase in military support from Western allies, including the delivery of US-made F-16 fighter jets, to effectively counter the sophisticated Russian attacks. Meanwhile, political challenges in Washington, including the holdup of a $60 billion military aid package by Trump Republicans, add to the complexity of the situation, impacting the level of support Ukraine receives during this critical time.