According to British intelligence services, Russia has significantly strengthened its defense lines in southern Ukraine. This is a sign that Moscow is using more resources to prepare for a possible Ukrainian counter-offensive in the direction of the coastal town of Melitopol, according to the short report by the British Ministry of Defence.
In the past few weeks, Russia has completed three defense lines in the Zaporizhia region over an estimated distance of 120 kilometers, each about 10 to 20 kilometers apart, the British wrote. The foremost contained positions for attack, while the rear two would have continuous, better developed defenses.
The defense lines have the potential to pose enormous hurdles for Ukraine, sources in London said. However, they could only prove effective if they were also adequately provided with troops and ammunition. It is unclear whether this is currently possible for the responsible unit.
The British Ministry of Defense has published daily information on the course of the war since the beginning of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, citing intelligence information. In doing so, the British government wants to both counter the Russian portrayal and keep allies in line. Moscow accuses London of a disinformation campaign.
