Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent "terroristic" attacks on Ukrainian railways are indicative of desperation rather than strategic success. Johnson argues that these escalated strikes, including the destruction of a civilian shunting locomotive near the Polish border, are a result of significant Russian losses and a failure to achieve decisive battlefield gains.
Johnson cited Russian casualty figures, stating that the country is experiencing record losses, exceeding 40,000 killed or severely wounded in July and August alone. He drew a parallel to the Soviet Union's ten-year conflict in Afghanistan, which contributed to the collapse of communism, suggesting that Russia's current attrition rate is unsustainable.
Despite setbacks, Johnson highlighted the resilience of Ukraine's railway company, Ukrzaliznytsia, whose employees have continued to operate and rebuild infrastructure despite significant losses. He noted that Ukrainian citizens are adapting to the ongoing attacks, underscoring a determination to endure.
Johnson called for a more robust response from Western nations, emphasizing the need to demonstrate to Putin that Ukraine cannot be defeated. He specifically urged the provision of enhanced air defense systems to counter Russian ballistic missiles and drones. Johnson also suggested facilitating Ukraine's ability to produce its own missile defense components and providing access to Starlink satellite internet for targeting Russian missile sites. Additionally, he proposed unfreezing Russian assets held in Western capitals to fund Ukraine's war effort.
The former Prime Minister visited a Ukrainian drone and missile startup, Firepoint, which he described as a world leader in cruise missile technology. He stressed the urgency of supplying Ukraine with the necessary technology to defend its infrastructure and cities, especially as winter approaches and Russia is expected to intensify its attacks on civilian populations.
Johnson concluded that increased pressure from the West is the most effective way to hasten the end of the conflict, characterizing Putin's actions as the desperate measures of a cornered adversary.