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Ukraine is finalizing second and third defense lines in Zaporizhzhia Oblast to create “fortress”

Fortifications are also being created around cities, the governor said.

byBohdan Ben

29/10/2024

2 minute read

Concrete bunkers are part of fortifications in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast

Concrete bunkers are part of fortifications in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Photo shared by the city administration.

Ukraine is finalizing second and third defense lines in Zaporizhzhia Oblast to create “fortress”

The Zaporizhzhia Oblast is significantly expanding its defensive infrastructure with the construction of second and third lines of defense while also fortifying areas around cities, according to Ivan Fedorov, head of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration, who spoke during a national TV air on 28 October.

Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in 2023, Ukraine has been constructing more fortifications amid a lack of weapons to destroy attacking Russian troops earlier before the frontline and relying on strategic defense.

Fedorov revealed that military forces completed the first defensive line in mid-summer and are now working jointly with the Oblast administration to establish additional layers of protection. The second line of defense is reportedly nearly complete, with the third line expected to be finished within the coming weeks.

“Our goal is to transform the Zaporizhzhia Oblast into a fortress,” Fedorov stated, adding that defensive structures are being continuously modernized with particular attention to protection against FPV (First Person View) drones, which have become increasingly prevalent in modern warfare.

The announcement comes as Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, recently visited units participating in defensive operations in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast. During his visit, Syrskyi emphasized that the primary objective is to strengthen military defense in the most challenging frontline areas and ensure maximum resilience of the defense line.

The reinforcement of defensive positions comes amid ongoing Russian attacks in the region. The new fortifications surrounding urban areas are proceeding according to the schedule set by the General Staff, Fedorov assured.

These defensive improvements represent a strategic shift toward long-term resilience in a region that has faced significant military pressure.

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