In a thought-provoking interview, Austrian military expert Markus Reisner likened Russia’s current situation to April 1945, just before the fall of Berlin, as reported by Neue Zurcher Zeitung. He suggests that despite minimal advancements in March 2025, Russia is poised to regain momentum. With the ground currently frozen, Reisner anticipates a resurgence in offensive operations as the soil dries, especially around the challenging Kharkiv region where Ukraine faces significant difficulties.
Reisner emphasised that the conflict hinges on attrition rather than territorial gains. He questioned the sustainability of Russia’s forces versus how long Ukraine can withstand the pressure. His analysis reveals a shift in the Western perspective, which initially underestimated Russia’s capabilities, expecting a swift victory akin to the US’s actions in Iraq. Falling back on a traditional strategy, the Russian approach leans towards wearing down the enemy over time.
Addressing Europe’s vulnerability, Reisner stated that European nations are ill-equipped to defend against advanced Russian missiles, such as the Hazel. He remarked that only five per cent of Eastern Europe’s airspace is defensible and warned that Europeans are ill-prepared for potential assaults, particularly if military troops are dispatched to Ukraine.
Reisner also pointed out that Moscow is not just leveraging military might; it is employing “soft power” to exploit Europe’s internal vulnerabilities and destabilise the continent from within. This strategy further complicates the geopolitical landscape and highlights the need for Europe to bolster its defences.
Austrian military expert Markus Reisner draws parallels between Russia’s current military tactics and those used before the capture of Berlin in 1945. Despite minor progress in early 2025, Reisner predicts a powerful resurgence as conditions improve. He highlights the attritional nature of the conflict, Europe’s defenselessness against new Russian missiles, and the effective use of soft power by Moscow to exploit internal weaknesses in Europe.
In summary, Markus Reisner’s insights paint a concerning picture of the ongoing conflict involving Russia and Ukraine. He warns of Russia’s potential resurgence as soon as conditions are favourable, underscoring the war of attrition at play. European vulnerabilities against advanced Russian weaponry and the subtle approach of soft power used by Moscow adds layers of complexity to the situation. A robust strategic response is essential for Europe to navigate these challenges.
Original Source: eadaily.com
