Russian forces have significantly stepped up attacks in eastern Ukraine. According to the Ukrainian governor in Luhansk, the Russians are trying to break through the Ukrainian defense lines at Kreminna, among other things. That city is already in the hands of Russia, but a breakthrough brings the Russians closer to the much larger city of Kramatorsk.
Kreminna is located about 70 kilometers from Kramatorsk. That city, together with Sloviansk, is the last remaining stronghold of Ukraine in the province of Donetsk.
The Russians have been trying for months to get closer to the two cities. Donetsk is one of four provinces illegally annexed by Russia. That means that Russian President Vladimir Putin illegally considers it Russian territory. The Russians have never completely controlled the region. Moreover, the annexation is hardly recognized internationally.
According to Governor Serhiy Haidai, the Ukrainian army is holding up, but needs more weapons, heavy equipment and artillery ammunition. “I can confirm that there has been a significant increase in attacks and shelling,” the regional director told Ukrainian television. “So far, those have not had significant success.” According to him, a counteroffensive is possible with more ammunition and weapons.
Military experts are counting on a new, major Russian offensive
Military experts have been warning for more than a month of a major new Russian offensive in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions. With this, the Kremlin would finally like to gain full control of the two provinces.
Some Western military analysts say the offensive has already begun. They point to the tens of thousands of recently mobilized troops sent to the front and the gradual advance of the Russian army.
