Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu asserted on Wednesday that Russian forces have successfully pushed back Ukrainian forces, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict, as reported by British news agency Reuters. Shoigu's declaration comes amidst Russia's plans to bolster its military capabilities with the formation of two new forces and the establishment of 30 new units by the end of the year.

Addressing senior generals, Shoigu highlighted the purported success of Russian armed forces in repelling enemy advances, a statement that has raised concerns in the United States about the evolving dynamics of the conflict. The announcement underscores Russia's commitment to fortifying its defenses and consolidating territorial gains achieved during the course of the war.

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In a bid to reinforce its military strength, Russia has announced plans to recruit tens of thousands of soldiers on a contractual basis, in addition to forming 30 units comprising two new forces, 14 divisions, and 16 brigades. The expansion of Russia's military capabilities signals its intent to consolidate recent gains and maintain momentum in the conflict.

While Russian assertions of progress in the conflict are met with cautious optimism by Moscow, Western intelligence agencies warn that the war in Ukraine may be entering a new phase, prompting calls for increased support to Ukrainian forces from Western allies. Ukraine's reliance on Western weapons and assistance is deemed essential in countering Russian aggression and preserving its sovereignty.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that Ukraine's existence is under threat in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. The conflict, which began with Russia's invasion in 2022, has seen Russia occupy significant swathes of Ukrainian territory, with an estimated 65,000 square kilometers falling under Russian control, according to the Harvard Kennedy School's Project on Russian Affairs.

As tensions escalate and the conflict intensifies, the international community remains vigilant, monitoring developments closely amid growing concerns over the humanitarian and geopolitical ramifications of the crisis in Ukraine.