During his recent year-end briefing, General Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia, emphasized the current status of military operations, including the halt of Ukrainian advances and the wider geopolitical ramifications for Russia. Speaking to military attachés from foreign nations, Gerasimov outlined significant developments on both the battlefield and the strategic front.
Gerasimov stated unequivocally, "The advancement of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) has been stopped," particularly noting actions taken to prevent mobile groups and mercenaries from penetrating deep within Russian territory. He highlighted the aggressive measures taken by Russian troops to regain control over occupied settlements, with operational successes reportedly resulting in substantial enemy losses.
According to TASS, Gerasimov reported, "During the fighting, the enemy has suffered losses exceeding 42,000 personnel, more than 1,800 tanks and armored vehicles, and over 350 artillery systems, mortars, and multiple launch rocket systems." These figures underline the toll inflicted upon Ukraine's military capacity, as the war enters its third year.
Gerasimov characterized the operation of Ukrainian forces within the Kursk region as reckless, aligned with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's ambitions to demonstrate resolve to Western allies. This framing aligns with comments from State Duma deputy Boris Gladkikh, who described Ukraine's offensive as necessary for Zelensky to project strength internationally.
During his remarks, Gerasimov did not shy away from discussing NATO's role, asserting the alliance's military activity at Russian borders has intensified significantly. He attributed NATO's escalated presence to what he termed the West's desire to maintain its global dominance, leading to heightened tensions across Europe. He stated, "The geopolitical conditions show NATO’s ambitions are inching closer to our borders, which creates significant risks."
Addressing the broader international dynamics, Gerasimov referred to what he called the West's use of the Ukraine crisis to destabilize other regions, including the South Caucasus and the Arctic. He warned, "The involvement of Western countries creates global risks, exploiting the Ukrainian populace as pawns." He framed this as part of their goal to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.
Gerasimov provided alarming statistics about Ukraine's dependency on foreign military and financial aid, stating, "Over 30 countries are currently supplying military products to Ukraine, with the most significant contributions coming from the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Denmark." He noted cumulative foreign financial assistance to Ukraine has reached around $350 billion since the conflict escalated, with approximately $170 billion earmarked explicitly for military needs. This external support continues to bolster Ukraine’s operational capabilities significantly.
Highlighting the effectiveness of Russian military strategies, Gerasimov remarked the Armed Forces of Russia have successfully liberated over 190 settlements and taken control of approximately 4,500 square kilometers of territory throughout 2024, as part of their special military operation (SMO). He asserted, "We have achieved all tasks set by the leadership of the country, indicating the successful completion of objectives within the SMO framework as we move forward."
The general offered reassurances about the Russian military's preparedness, maintaining, "Despite the colossal assistance from the West, the initiative on the battlefield remains firmly within our grasp, and Russian troops are advancing across the entire front."
Gerasimov elaborated on the preparation of Ukrainian servicemen, noting over 165,000 Ukrainian military personnel have undergone training according to NATO standards, reinforcing the alliance's commitment to supporting Ukraine's military operations. He portrayed these developments as indicative of the West's aggressive posture.
On strategic military policies, Gerasimov reiterated Russia's nuclear deterrent strategies, stressing their flexibility and the necessity to respond to any perceived aggression. He emphasized, "Our nuclear threshold is not confined by international commitments but is determined by the imperative to repel aggression and neutralize potential threats." His comments reflect Russia's intent to maintain its defensive posture amid rising concerns over NATO’s military orientation.
Further addressing NATO's increasing presence, he noted extensive military exercises occurring near Russian borders—approximately 40 per year—which he claims heighten threats to national security. Gerasimov stated, "Every NATO exercise near our borders brings new challenges, and we are actively monitoring all military activities conducted by the West to formulate our responses accordingly."
Looking beyond Europe, Gerasimov drew attention to growing risks within the Middle East, highlighting how U.S. influence exacerbates conflicts within Syria, leading to greater instability. He remarked, "The breakdown of order within Syria is reflective of the broader geopolitical challenges we face, demonstrating the interconnectedness of these crises and the need for strategic vigilance."
Gerasimov’s annual briefing encapsulated the tensions between Russia and NATO, alongside the dynamics of the war against Ukraine. His detailed account serves to reinforce the narrative of Russian resilience and adaptability on both the battlefield and diplomatic arenas.
With the international community closely monitoring the developments, the ramifications of these military operations may significantly shape geopolitical relations as 2024 advances, posing new challenges for all parties involved.
