Russia builds up forces for new offensive in southeast Ukraine
Photo: Defense Intelligence of Ukraine warned of Russia's plans in Donbas (Getty Images)
Russia is preparing a new offensive in southeastern Ukraine, deploying strategic reserves. An additional 20,000 troops are planned to be deployed to reinforce the Russian forces, according to the Financial Times.
Russia's plans on frontline
Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine (HUR), notes that there are currently about 680,000 Russian soldiers on Ukrainian territory.
The Russian command aims to use additional fresh forces to increase pressure on the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
According to him, Russia's main strategic goal remains the complete capture of the territories of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Intelligence reports indicate that Russia has set specific timeframes for itself. Russia is preparing a new offensive in southeastern Ukraine, using its strategic reserve to add 20,000 fresh troops to its forces inside the country.
Skibitskyi notes that Russia aims to capture the Donbas by September.
Russia's massive attacks goal
According to Skibitskyi, the increase in missile strikes and drone raids is part of Russia’s broader strategy.
Russians are trying to destroy Ukraine's critical infrastructure and shape the battlefield ahead of a new spring-summer offensive.
Signal of refusal to negotiate
Skibitskyi, who is a member of the Ukrainian negotiating team, emphasizes that such actions by the Kremlin are demonstrative.
Preparations for large-scale ground operations instead of diplomatic steps indicate that Russia does not take negotiations seriously and plans to continue its war of aggression.
Russian plans and situation on frontline
Earlier, the Center for Countering Disinformation reported that the Kremlin was considering at least three scenarios regarding the war in Ukraine. Moscow is simultaneously exploring options ranging from the continuation of hostilities to a frozen conflict and hybrid aggression against NATO countries.
Meanwhile, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Brigadier General Pavlo Palisa, noted that Russian losses in Donbas have tripled, while their advance remains minimal. According to him, despite Russia's ambitious plans for 2026, the enemy currently lacks the actual forces to implement them.
In addition, the Office of the President explained that political peace talks were currently on hold. One of the main reasons for the lull in the military-political track of the negotiations has been the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, although the humanitarian tracks, in particular, the prisoner exchange, continue to operate.
