Russian forces preparing for deep breakthrough: Ukrainian expert analyzes frontline situation
On April 26, Ukrainska Pravda published an interview with Pavel Lakytschuk, head of the military project at the Strategic 21st Century Global Research Center in Ukraine. Lakytschuk pointed out that the balance of power on the southern front is undergoing change.
In most areas along the front line, Russian forces are conducting preparatory operations, gearing up for large-scale deep breakthroughs. Currently, Russian troops are fully focused on securing strategic advantageous positions to create conditions for potential offensives. He noted that large-scale attacks require sufficient troop reserves; if Russia fails to replenish its forces, certain fronts will be forced into defensive postures.
The situation on the southern front remains volatile, with a shifting balance of power. Fighting is intense around Hulyaipole and Oleksandriivka—two areas belonging to a unified operational zone on the northern flank.
"This region continues to see fierce back-and-forth combat. Ukrainian defense units are still counterattacking, but not on a large scale anymore. It is clear that Ukraine’s offensive capabilities are continuously constrained and weakening, while Russia keeps reinforcing its reserve forces."
Capitalizing on its resource advantages, Russia is steadily expanding its southern offensive front. At the same time, Russian forces are attempting to outflank the Olehiv defense line from the west of Hulyaipole.
"Russia's ultimate goal may not be capturing Olehiv city itself. The current minimum objective is to bypass our defensive strongholds and push westward deeply, maximizing the expansion of the southern breakthrough area."
The main battlefield in Donbas is concentrated in the Pokrovsk–Myrnohrad corridor. After gaining control over both locations, Russian forces have been stockpiling troops and consolidating their rear bases, aiming to further break through Ukrainian lines.
"Currently, Russian forces can only achieve minor advances in two narrow sectors, and their expansion plans keep failing. Ukrainian defense units are employing sound tactics, precisely targeting enemy flanks, disrupting enemy operations, and forcing Russia to continually reinforce these narrow battle zones."
Additionally, Russian forces are launching fierce assaults on the Chasiv Yar high ground area.
"In recent days, Russian forces have launched multiple waves of attacks on Chasiv Yar, attempting to seize the entire region and advance toward key cities such as Kramatorsk, Kostiantynivka, Druzhkivka, and Lyman. Russia still aims to outflank Ukrainian positions from the north, but Ukrainian forces are holding firm along their lines, mounting precise counterattacks that effectively contain Russian advances and completely thwart their strategic objectives."
Moreover, Ukraine’s General Staff reported that throughout April 25, there were a total of 125 engagements along the front line; 15 attacks were recorded near Hulyaipole, and four enemy offensives were registered near Olehiv.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863489010919691/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.