Russia has significantly increased its military presence and bombing activities in the south of Ukraine, especially around the Zaporozhye region.
Ukraine Stretched Thin
Digi24 reported that according to Ukrainian military spokesperson, Vladislav Voloshin, the buildup has been ongoing for several weeks.
Russia appears to be preparing for offensive operations in Zaporozhye, where both sides have held largely stable positions in recent months.
A major Russian assault in this region would place additional strain on Ukraine's defenses, which are already stretched on the eastern front and engaged in counteroffensives in the northern Kursk region of Russia.
Replenishing Ammunition Supplies
Voloshin stated that Russia has been strengthening its forces, particularly in areas like Vremivka, Gulyaypole, and Robotyne.
Every day, Russian troops conduct aerial reconnaissance and technical surveys.
They have also been replenishing ammunition supplies in preparation for potential assaults. Voloshin added that the Russian forces are preparing to deploy armored vehicles in the area.
He declined to provide specific figures on the number of Russian troops concentrated on the Zaporozhye front. However, he confirmed that Russian units are launching small-scale attacks daily to test Ukrainian defenses.
Voloshin assured that Ukrainian forces have reinforced their own defensive positions and are prepared for a larger-scale attack.
This new phase follows Ukraine’s summer counteroffensive aimed at regaining control over the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions.
Despite some initial successes, Ukrainian forces struggled to make substantial gains. This has allowed Russian troops to fortify their positions and regroup.
President Volodymyr Zelensky recently highlighted that Russia has amassed a force of around 50,000 soldiers to support its offensive efforts.
According to Zelensky, this force reportedly includes several thousand North Korean troops, sent to bolster Russian ranks as they attempt to reclaim contested areas in the Kursk region that remain under Ukrainian control.
