Pentagon: Ukraine to face uphill battle in spring, summer

US Defence Department Spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder has said that Ukraine will face an uphill battle against Russia in the spring and summer.

He made the remarks at a Pentagon briefing on March 14 and pledged to help Ukraine resolve the ammunition shortage, according to Liga.net.

Ryder said that the US is working closely with allies to provide the Ukrainian Armed Forces, but acknowledged the fact that there was an uphill battle ahead, especially in the spring and summer periods.

He said that Washington would work to ensure that all necessary ammunition is delivered to Ukraine's forward units as soon as possible.

Ryder said the March 15 Ramstein meeting of military aid donor countries would focus on immediate needs, including ammunition.

"You have heard Secretary Austin and others say that we are committed to making sure they have everything they need to succeed," the Pentagon spokesman said.