Three possible Russian strike directions in April named by Ukraine's Defense Forces
Photo: Ukraine's Defense Forces name three possible directions of a Russian strike in April (Getty Images)
Russian command is strengthening its troop grouping in southern Ukraine, redeploying marine units for assault operations. They plan to deploy additional forces as early as April, Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Vladyslav Voloshyn said during a national telethon.
Where the enemy is moving forces
According to the spokesperson, Russia recently redeployed the 40th Separate Marine Brigade of the Russian Pacific Fleet to the Huliaipole direction. The unit has already attempted to attack Ukrainian positions but failed.
"It already took part in assault operations near the settlements of Varvarivka and Pryluki. They tried to attack our positions, but unsuccessfully," Voloshyn said.
He also confirmed that Russian forces are transferring two more marine groupings to the southern front. According to the spokesperson, these are Russian marine divisions currently deployed in different sectors.
Timing and possible directions of the offensive
Voloshyn explained that before being sent to the front, the units will undergo restoration and combat coordination.
"They will be redeployed to temporarily occupied territory in the Donetsk region. There they will undergo restoration, replenish losses, and will likely be involved in assault operations in the south as early as April," the spokesperson said.
Among the possible areas where the enemy may intensify operations, Ukraine's Defense Forces name:
-
the Huliaipole direction
-
the Oleksandrivka direction
-
the Orikhiv direction
"Speaking about where exactly and how they will act is a matter of the Russian General Staff’s plans," the spokesperson added.
In addition, the situation in the Huliaipole direction remains tense. Up to 30 combat clashes are recorded there daily. The occupiers are most active near the settlements of Zaliznychne, Myrne, and Charivne.
Situation in the Huliaipole direction
Earlier, Vladyslav Voloshyn, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Southern Defense Forces, said Russian troops are attempting to attack Ukrainian positions near Huliaipole from several directions at once — from the north, south, and west. At the same time, the occupiers have been unable to establish a foothold directly in the city.
According to him, the situation in the Huliaipole direction remains difficult. The city itself is effectively in the so-called "gray zone," where active fighting is ongoing.
At the same time, today Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi said that the highest intensity of Russian offensive operations is currently being recorded precisely in the Huliaipole area.
