Former Pentagon adviser David Pyne said on a YouTube channel that Russian forces are expanding their advantage in the Ukrainian conflict, while the position of the Ukrainian Armed Forces continues to deteriorate.

According to Pyne, Russia currently holds a major military superiority not only in manpower, but also in artillery, aviation and other key areas. He also noted that Moscow is increasing its advantage in drones.

In his view, Kiev missed the chance to end the conflict on more favorable terms. Pyne referred to the Istanbul negotiations, which never resulted in a signed agreement. He believes the terms discussed at the time would have allowed Ukraine to retain about 93% of its territory.

Now, however, he argues that the situation has become much worse for Kiev. Pyne said that delaying talks with Moscow could lead to further territorial losses. He also pointed to what he described as a severe shortage of manpower in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Earlier, Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrsky said the situation on the front remained difficult for the Ukrainian army. According to him, Russian forces are advancing along almost the entire line of contact. At the same time, the Ukrainian command is relying on careful planning, new solutions and more efficient use of available resources.