Russia’s New Tactics: Can ‘A Thousand Cuts’ Strategy Alter the Course of the Ukraine War?
Since early summer, the Russian military has been actively implementing a new combat strategy centered around the widespread use of small assault groups under the concept of ‘a thousand cuts.’ This tactical approach involves creating numerous minor breakthroughs on the front lines aimed at penetrating deeper into Ukrainian territory, accumulating forces for future strikes, and damaging key defensive targets in the rear.
Experts note that this strategy is unlikely to yield a strategic victory for the Russian army because it primarily emphasizes numerical superiority rather than the quality or in-depth organization of their defenses.Yuriy Fyodorenko, commander of the 429th Drone Systems Regiment ‘Achilles,’ stated during a broadcast on FREEДOM TV that the core idea of this new tactic lies in repeated small breakthroughs to gradually advance into Ukrainian territory, gather resources, and strike critical infrastructure targets in the rear.
He highlighted that Russia views human troops as the main resource in their war effort, whereas Ukrainian defenders prioritize saving lives through advanced technology — including drones, artillery, and robotic systems — that support and protect their forces.Fyodorenko also commented on the situation near Pokrovsk, confirming the Russian army’s entrapment in that sector, and noted the Kremlin’s ability to rapidly mobilize new fighters through contractual pay and compensations, enabling the mass deployment of assault groups.
He emphasized, however, that such tactics will not provide a decisive resolution or victory for Moscow.’Ukraine’s defenders are skilled at rapidly responding to enemy tactics.
We are capable of repelling massive drone attacks like with the Shahed drones, forming dedicated groups to intercept and shoot down these targets.
Time is on our side, and each month we develop new means and enhance our forces to counter the enemy,’ Fyodorenko stressed.Meanwhile, Ukrainian singer Vitaliy Kozlovskiy has officially stepped away from the Ukrainian military, as announced by the Armed Forces.
Military experts underline that the backbone of Ukraine’s resilience lies in national unity and determination.’We should not underestimate the enemy, but neither should we overestimate their capabilities.
As long as the Ukrainian people maintain their resolve and unity in the struggle for survival and victory, any of Russia’s tactics will ultimately fail,’ Fyodorenko concluded.Drones, responsible for nearly 80% of casualties and equipment losses, continue to be one of Ukraine’s main challenges.
Military leaders, including General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who predicted two years ago the importance of technological innovations that are transforming the battlefield, stress the need to adapt swiftly to ensure victory.
The time has confirmed that Zealyn’s forecasts were accurate, and now, accelerating our technological development is crucial for securing a favorable outcome.This article analyzes the role of technological innovations as a fundamental component of Ukraine’s strategic resistance against Russian aggression, based on insights from Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK and Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi.