The US explains why Ukraine suffered heavy losses in the counterattack.

At a forum in Aspen, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are suffering heavy losses in the counteroffensive. Accordingly, a large number of fighter jets have been damaged and destroyed in this counteroffensive.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are not using all available forces and resources in the battles and are waiting for the right moment. Although Washington has advised Kyiv on this matter, the final decision rests with Kyiv.

Mr. Sullivan also stated that the US and other NATO member states are prepared to accept the risks involved in supplying new weapons to Ukraine. At the same time, the entire alliance believes that careful consideration is needed regarding Moscow's potential reaction to such steps, as this is "critical to maintaining global stability."

Also related to US military aid to Ukraine, the United Nations expressed concern about Kyiv's use of cluster bombs from Washington. A spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric, stressed that these types of bombs and munitions should not be used.

The Washington Post reported on July 20, citing an unnamed Ukrainian official, that Ukraine has begun using cluster munitions against Russian forces in the south to penetrate Russia's fortified defenses, which have slowed Kyiv's counterattack.

The official added that cluster bombs were used to destroy Russian trenches. He did not provide further details.

However, Russia warned it could use cluster munitions in Ukraine in retaliation. "Russia has a ready-to-use stockpile of cluster bombs and munitions. They are far more effective than the American cluster bombs and munitions," Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu asserted.