Another month before Ukrainian offensive starts – Estonian Defense Minister 

Pevkur shared his thoughts during an interview with the Estonian public broadcaster ERR after the Ukraine Support Group meeting at the Ramstein military base in Germany.

"If you listen to the opinions [that were voiced at the Ramstein base], it could be another month before we can talk about a real counteroffensive. If the weather changes, it could happen even sooner. If not, it will be a month, maybe two," he said.

Pevkur also pointed out that the current issue is not the lack of Abrams tanks, but the weather conditions in Ukraine.

"The Abrams tanks are not decisive in the spring offensive. The Leopard coalition [of countries that provided tanks to Ukraine] was strong, and quite a lot of equipment has already been transferred to Ukraine, and quite a lot is on its way there. The biggest obstacle to a counteroffensive, which is likely to take place, is the weather. The rainy weather makes it difficult to move heavy equipment, so Ukrainians are waiting for the weather to improve to start a larger-scale liberation of territories," Pevkur explained.

He also mentioned that the meeting in Germany focused on the training of the nine brigades formed by the allies, the equipment of these brigades, and the needs that might arise when the Ukrainian counterattack begins. Pevkur emphasized that the Western allies provided Ukraine with high-level training and coordination under the American leadership, and they have a clear understanding of Ukraine's needs.

Furthermore, Pevkur mentioned that besides anti-aircraft defense, Ukrainians require ammunition, heavy trucks and their trailers, and Western-type fighter jets.

• US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that Ukraine has a good chance of launching a counteroffensive this spring since Russian resources are depleted, and the Ukrainian military is receiving help from Western partners. 

• The Ministry of Defense stated that the counteroffensive actions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are already taking place in the east.