Ukraine prepares for defensive winter in Donbas
Following the difficulties encountered in its summer counteroffensive, Ukraine is preparing for a defensive winter in the face of a growing Russian army in the Donbas region.
According to Agerpres, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a speech to the nation that he has ordered a "significant strengthening" of Ukraine's defensive fortifications.
"The funds exist, and the decisions have been made. Now, appropriate work must be carried out on the ground. Everything has been perfectly detailed. There are enough explosive mines and cement," Zelensky said, emphasising the need for "more speed and efficiency" in consolidating the fortifications.
According to military experts, the Ukrainian counteroffensive has encountered major difficulties, largely due to the strong fortifications built by Russia in the south of the country. While Ukraine was preparing for the offensive, Russia focused on building extensive fortifications, including dense minefields and trench networks, preventing the advance of Ukrainian troops.
However, despite the significant losses suffered by Russia, it continues to launch massive attacks in the Donetsk region. In parallel, Ukraine has opened a new front on the eastern bank of the Dnieper River, where they have created a bridgehead, and fighting is in full swing.
In the Avdiivka area, Russia has mobilised a significant number of brigades in an attempt to encircle the town defended by Ukrainian troops. As the fighting continues, Ukraine hopes to take advantage of the new front in the Kherson region to advance towards the Crimean Peninsula.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
