Russia is preparing for a "bold" offensive in Zaporizhzhia, which is located just 30 kilometers from the front line, according to Ukrainian intelligence. This city is one of the last three remaining "centers of heavy industry," crucial for Ukraine's survival as a functioning state, reports The Economist.
At the end of 2022, Vladimir Putin declared the entire region as his own property, despite only controlling a third of its territory—following a sham referendum in which the residents of Zaporizhzhia did not vote, the article states. Over the course of two months, Russian missiles and explosive bombs targeted the city, destroying 1,500 homes. A Ukrainian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the publication that 130,000 Russian occupiers could soon be sent into battle.
However, Colonel Alexey Khilchenko, commander of the "Spartan" rapid reaction brigade recently deployed to Zaporizhzhia, believes that Russia is "busy elsewhere" and will not launch an offensive on this city. He also claims that the Russians intended to send two divisions (20,000-30,000 soldiers) for the initial assault, but half of them were diverted to the Kursk region.
The commander of the 118th Brigade "Lemberg," which defends the southwestern borders of Zaporizhzhia, agrees that the occupiers are not yet ready for this move. "But when they do strike, the first blow will be the strongest," he added.
Media reports indicate that Ukraine is not taking risks this time and is building new fortifications around Zaporizhzhia.
Other news on Russia's offensive in various areas
Earlier, UNIAN reported that the U.S. has decided to supply Ukraine with anti-personnel mines, specifically to prevent "meat" assaults by the occupiers across different sections of the front, particularly in Donbas. However, the question remains - which specific anti-personnel mines will Ukraine receive.
Additionally, the Kremlin dictator has set the objective of regaining control over the Kursk region before Donald Trump's inauguration. To achieve this, he is even deploying troops from North Korea.