The UK Defense Ministry’s intelligence update indicates that Russia is likely transferring its troops from the eastern-bank Kherson Oblast to strengthen positions in the Zaporizhzhia and Bakhmut sectors, not expecting a major Ukrainian attack across the Dnipro after the destruction of the Khakhovka Dam.
The ministry tweeted:
- “Over the last ten days, Russia has highly likely started relocating elements of its Dnipro Group of Forces (DGF) from the eastern bank of the Dnipro River to reinforce the Zaporizhzhia and Bakhmut sectors.”
- “This potentially involves several thousand troops from the 49th Army, including its 34th Separate Motorised Brigade, as well as Airborne Forces (VDV) and Naval Infantry units.”
- “The DGF redeployment likely reflects Russia’s perception that a major Ukrainian attack across the Dnipro is now less likely following the collapse of Kakhovka Dam and the resulting flooding.”
Read also:
- Ukraine confirms liberation of Piatykhatky settlement in Zaporizhzhia Oblast
- Russia resumes offensive in Bakhmut sector – Ukraine’s General Staff
- Frontline report: Ukrainian forces make gains in intense clashes in Zaporizhzhia’s Orikhiv direction
- Evidence suggests Russia destroyed Kakhovka dam from within – NYT
