Russia shifts attack strategy in Ukraine, prioritizes defense industry
Illustrative photo: The aftermath of Russia's attack on Ukraine (t.me/dsns_telegram)
Russian troops have changed the priorities of their massive attacks on Ukraine, shifting the main focus from energy infrastructure to defense industry facilities, according to an RBC-Ukraine article Changing tactics and new targets: How Russia could try to shift course of war.
As one informed source told RBC-Ukraine, the Russians have now realized that for several months in a row, they concentrated on energy facilities and did not attack Ukrainian defense production sites.
According to him, the list of priority targets is now being expanded. Russia has identified strikes on defense industry facilities as one of the key directions, while simultaneously continuing attacks on energy and fuel infrastructure.
"The enemy is interested in our strategic enterprises. Among priority targets of Russian strikes are our defense production facilities, energy facilities, gas production and oil production sectors, gas stations in frontline territories, strikes on which we have recently recorded," he said.
Several sources predict that at least until fall, the Russians do not plan to carry out such a concentrated campaign of attacks on Ukraine’s energy system as they did in the fall and winter.
However, they continue conducting reconnaissance of these facilities and monitoring how they are being restored and repaired.
Meanwhile, one of the sources sees the threat that in summer the enemy may begin attacks on water supply systems — something Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned about back in late March.
Russia preparing strikes on water infrastructure
In March, the head of state said Russia was preparing a new wave of massive attacks on Ukraine. The enemy would target the country’s water supply systems.
If the attacks are successful, millions of people will receive water according to schedules. At least 10 major cities in the frontline and southeastern regions could end up in the potential risk zone.
According to the available assessment, water intake facilities could become the main targets. Water purification and distribution systems are considered less vulnerable to such strikes.
Mobile pumping stations and water supply restrictions are being prepared in case of emergencies.
