Russia may intensify its offensive in Kupiansk and Lyman directions - UK intelligence

British intelligence emphasizes that the Ukrainian counter-offensive has put Russian forces under pressure in Bakhmut and southern Ukraine. Despite this, Russia’s Western Group of Forces has continued small-scale attacks in the north-east, in the Kupiansk-Lyman sector, and has made some limited local advances.

As Ukraine continues to gradually gain ground in the south, Russia’s doctrine suggests that it will attempt to regain the initiative by pivoting back to an operational level offensive. Kupiansk-Lyman is one potential area for this.

Intelligence reports suggest there is a realistic possibility Russia will increase the intensity of its offensive efforts on the Kupiansk-Lyman axis in the next two months, probably with the objective of advancing west to the Oskil River and creating a buffer zone around the Luhansk region.

Lyman and Kupiansk sectors

Military leadership previously stated that Russians have intensified their advance in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions. However, the Armed Forces of Ukraine are repelling enemy attacks.

According to the latest reports from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the occupiers are not abandoning their intentions to break through our troops' defense and continue their assaults. Deputy Minister of Defence of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Hanna Maliar, has said that the Russians are regrouping in the Lyman and Kupiansk directions.

For more on what is happening near Kupiansk and whether it will become another Bakhmut, read the RBC-Ukraine article.