Russia is preparing 100,000 soldiers who could be used for a new offensive in Ukraine this summer or to replenish units, the commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces said on Friday.
Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk made the comment on Ukrainian television following the recent advance of Russian troops into eastern Ukraine, more than two years after Moscow’s full-scale invasion.
“It won’t necessarily be an offensive, maybe they will replenish units that have lost combat capability, but there is a possibility that by the beginning of summer they will have certain forces to conduct offensive operations,” Pavliuk said.
In a sign of toughening rhetoric in Russia, the Kremlin said Friday that it now considers itself at war over what it calls Western intervention on Ukraine’s side.
The choice of words went beyond the “special military operations” language used until now and could be part of a change aimed at mentally preparing people for a new phase of the war.
Russia’s defense minister also said this week that Moscow will strengthen its armed forces by adding two new armies and 30 new formations by the end of this year.
Ukraine faces an ammunition shortage exacerbated by a U.S. congressional impasse over a new aid package, although Kiev expects to have enough ammunition in April, thanks largely to a Czech-led initiative to obtain ammunition. artillery.
Deputy Defense Minister Ivan Havryliuk said in televised comments that Russia has a seven-to-one advantage over Ukraine in ammunition.
“I believe that in a month or two this difference will significantly reduce and there will not be such a large proportion in favor of the Russian Federation,” he said.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
