Russia has escalated its military actions in Donbas recently, gaining ground in the region. Following the fall of Avdiivka in February, Russia has now captured Ocheretyne, marking a significant advancement westward. Over the last 24 hours, Ukraine's defense ministry reported 125 Russian attacks along the front line, concentrating heavily on Ocheretyne and Chasiv Yar. Despite no major breakthroughs, Ukraine is surprised by Russia's progress, leading to internal criticism.
The DeepState Telegram channel, linked to the Ukrainian army, criticized the command of the brigade in Ocheretyne for defense failures, attributing significant losses to these lapses. The brigade defended its actions, citing overwhelming Russian firepower.
Ukraine has long warned of ammunition shortages, even with Western aid approval, which could take up to two months to arrive. Yuri Fedorenko, commander of the Achilles drone battalion, predicts intense warfare in the coming months until aid arrives.
Russian troops are nearing the strategically vital T0504 road, threatening Ukrainian territory. Civilian workers are fortifying the road with trenches and anti-tank ditches. Ukraine fears Russia aims to capture Chasiv Yar before May 9th, potentially facilitating an attack on Kramatorsk, a crucial Ukrainian city.
Russian forces have employed unconventional tactics, including off-road motorcycles, to breach Ukrainian positions. While Ukrainian resistance has so far held off Russian advances, recent movements from the south pose a new challenge. However, to take Chasiv Yar, Russian troops must overcome natural obstacles, including a deep and wide dried-up canal.
Despite heavy losses, Russian tactics persist, combining aerial bombardments, artillery barrages, and ground assaults. Ukraine remains vigilant, bracing for further confrontations as the conflict intensifies.
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