Final answer:
Russia struggled at the start of WWI due to large military casualties, command incompetency, and material shortages. Despite this, its massive army, showcased during the successful Brusilov Offensive, was a significant asset.
Step-by-step explanation:
At the onset of World War I, Russia was experiencing several significant struggles. Despite having a massive army, it was hampered by enormous casualties, with millions killed, wounded, or taken as prisoners. A notable factor contributing to this grim situation was the incompetence of some military commanders and a severe lack of supplies.
Insufficient logistical support, such as inadequate transportation and production capacities, further led to shortages in essential munitions like guns and artillery, severely compromising the effectiveness of the Russian military forces.
Back home, the soldiers' morale was impacted by knowledge of widespread food shortages, leading to long lines and riots in cities and towns. Additionally, the tsarist government did not demonstrate the capability to address the challenges posed by the war effectively.
Nonetheless, Russia did have one significant asset—its ability to field a large fighting force, which included capable elements such as the Brusilov Offensive in 1916 against Austrian forces.
Despite the aforementioned struggles, Russia's large fighting force was a crucial asset. The Russian army was initially able to fight effectively, especially against Austrian forces, consistently achieving victories. In particular, the Brusilov Offensive significantly weakened the Austro-Hungarian forces.
However, the lack of support and industrialization, compounded by inadequate infrastructure such as railroads, prevented Russia from maintaining a sustainable war effort.