BTN News: In a dramatic turn of events on the Ukrainian front, one of Russia’s most formidable war machines, the T-90M tank—hailed by Vladimir Putin in 2023 as “the best combat vehicle in the world”—has ended up in the hands of Ukrainian forces. This tank, known for its cutting-edge technology and formidable firepower, was deployed by Russia in the ongoing conflict, particularly in the Kursk region, to stifle the Ukrainian advance. However, contrary to Russian expectations, the vehicle was captured by Ukrainian soldiers and has now appeared in Sumy, near the Russian border, according to a photograph taken by AFP’s Roman Pilipey on Wednesday. The capture of such a significant piece of Russian military hardware symbolizes not only a tactical win for Ukraine but also a deep psychological blow to Russia, undermining the once-vaunted reputation of their advanced war machinery.
The T-90M tank, which Russia boasted as a game-changer in the battlefield, features a 125 mm stabilized cannon and advanced armor that is reputed to offer superior protection with its multi-layered design. It also comes equipped with sophisticated electronic systems, including panoramic sights and a thermal imaging camera, aimed at enhancing its battlefield effectiveness. However, despite these technological advantages, the tank’s capture is a clear indication that Ukraine’s forces have become increasingly adept at countering and neutralizing even the most advanced Russian weaponry.
This incident isn’t isolated; reports from Ukraine’s Khortytsia Operational and Strategic Group of Troops suggest that this is the second time in recent months that a T-90M has been seized. In July, Ukrainian forces successfully captured another tank of the same model, further denting the perceived invincibility of Russia’s armored fleet. Each successful capture serves to boost Ukrainian morale, not just among the troops on the front lines, but across the entire nation, which continues to resist the Russian invasion with remarkable resilience.
In contrast, the losses on the Russian side have had a demoralizing effect, with the Kremlin’s narrative of a quick and decisive “special military operation” rapidly unraveling into a protracted and grueling war. The continued setbacks on the battlefield are slowly eroding the prestige that Russian military technology once held, with the T-90M’s failure being emblematic of broader systemic issues within the Russian military apparatus.
The Ukrainian presidency has taken this opportunity to critique those who have previously called for de-escalation and a quick peace settlement on Russia’s terms. Mykhailo Podoliak, spokesperson for President Volodymyr Zelensky, pointedly questioned the silence of these advocates in the face of Russia’s actions in Kursk, highlighting the importance of a strategy that combines peace efforts with a robust military response. According to Podoliak, the recent successes on the front line demonstrate that de-escalation is only effective when paired with “coercion to peace,” as Russia seems to respond only to the application of brute force.
These developments have significantly altered the dynamics of the war, with the morale among Ukrainian forces visibly heightened by their recent victories. The psychological impact of these successes is palpable, instilling a sense of optimism and determination not just on the front lines but also within the Ukrainian population. On the other hand, Russian forces are reportedly struggling with the realization that their “special military operation” has transformed into a full-scale war with no clear end in sight, leading to widespread demoralization.
As the conflict continues, the T-90M’s reputation as an indomitable force is increasingly tarnished. What was once touted as a symbol of Russian military superiority is now a reminder of the challenges that Russia faces in the war against Ukraine. The capture of these tanks by Ukrainian forces underscores a broader narrative of resistance and resilience, as Ukraine continues to defy the odds and push back against one of the world’s largest military powers.
