Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) representative Vadym Skibitskyi stated on January 20 that the spring and early summer of 2023 will be decisive in the war and confirmed that the HUR has observed indicators that Russian troops are regrouping in preparation for a “big offensive” in Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts. Skibitsky also reiterated that Russian forces are unlikely to launch an attack from Belarus or in southern Ukraine.
ISW has previously assessed that Russian forces may be preparing for a decisive effort (of either offensive or defensive nature) in Luhansk Oblast and observed a redeployment of conventional forces such as Airborne (VDV) elements to the Svatove-Kreminna axis after the Russian withdrawal from Kherson Oblast.
ISW also maintains that it is highly unlikely that Russian forces are planning to relaunch a new offensive on northern Ukraine from the direction of Belarus.
Skibitskyi’s assessments largely support ISW’s running forecasts of Russian intentions in the first half of 2023 and underscore the continued need for Western partner support to ensure that Ukraine does not lose the initiative to a renewed Russian offensive operation.
Read also:
- Ukraine is being prepared for an offensive, but so far, without tanks: results of Ramstein-8
- Ukraine’s Bakhmut defense strategically justified despite high cost – ISW
- Ammo shortages likely to hinder Russia’s ability to sustain offensive operations in 2023 – ISW
- Russia-Belarus flight drills are likely “genuine exercise,” rather than preparation for additional offensive ops – British intel
