Even limited Russian activity in other sections of the border below the threshold of offensive operations could lead to the stretching of Ukrainian forces on a wide front.
Russian troops have committed limited, undermanned and uncoordinated forces in the direction of Sumy, but even such a grouping of Russian forces will achieve the most likely desired effect – to delay and organize the Ukrainian forces in border area. This was stated by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
“The deputy commander of the Ukrainian brigade operating in the north of the Kharkov region reported on May 20 that Russian troops, including Chechens, were gathering in the direction of Sumy, but a limited number of Russian personnel were indicates that Russia’s goal is to divert and consolidate Ukrainian forces along the area’s borders,” ISW said.
According to Ukrainian military observer Konstantin Mashovets, the Russian group in the Kursk region numbered 9,000-10,000 people. Mashovets believed that this group consisted of three deficient motorized rifle regiments (each missing one or two battalions); eight motorized rifle, tank and infantry battalions; an airborne battalion transferred from various units, formations and military districts; and at least two assault troops in echelon of a reinforced company or understrength battalion.
ISW estimates that even limited Russian activity in other parts of the border below the threshold of Russian offensive operations could lead to the stretching of Ukrainian forces on a wide front. Russian forces will be able to stretch out and anchor Ukrainian forces along the border as Russia threatens to penetrate other border areas beyond the northern Kharkiv region.
Let’s recall that the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Kirill Budanov, suggested that Russia may launch a new offensive in the Sumy region.
According to the General Staff, Russian troops continue active offensive and offensive operations in the direction of Kupyansky, Kurakhovsky, Kramatorsk and Pokrovsky.
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Source: korrespondent
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.