Kyiv: Russia has significantly increased its military presence and bombing activity in southern Ukraine, especially around the Zaporozhye (Zaporizhzhia) region, signaling the potential for a new offensive.
Ukraine Faces Growing Pressure
Ukrainian military spokesperson Vladislav Voloshin, as reported by Digi24, confirmed that the Russian buildup in the region has been underway for weeks. The Zaporozhye area, which has seen relatively stable positions from both sides in recent months, is now facing increased Russian preparations for an assault.
A major Russian offensive in Zaporozhye would further strain Ukraine’s already stretched defenses, as its forces remain engaged on multiple fronts, including the eastern region and ongoing counteroffensives in the northern Kursk region of Russia.
Reinforcements and Ammunition Buildup
Voloshin stated that Russian forces have bolstered their positions, particularly in areas like Vremivka, Gulyaypole, and Robotyne. Russian troops are conducting daily aerial reconnaissance and technical surveys, while also replenishing their ammunition supplies in anticipation of an imminent attack. Voloshin also mentioned that Russian forces are preparing to deploy additional armored vehicles to the frontlines.
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While he refrained from providing specific troop numbers, Voloshin confirmed that Russian units have been launching small-scale daily attacks to test Ukrainian defenses. However, he reassured that Ukrainian forces have reinforced their positions and are prepared for a larger offensive.
A Changing Battlefield
This buildup comes on the heels of Ukraine’s summer counteroffensive, which focused on retaking the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions. Although Ukraine achieved some early victories, progress has been slower than expected, enabling Russian forces to fortify their positions and regroup.
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President Volodymyr Zelensky recently announced that Russia has amassed around 50,000 troops for the new phase of its offensive. He further noted that the Russian force includes several thousand North Korean soldiers, sent to support Russian efforts in recapturing the contested Kursk region, which remains under Ukrainian control.
