Photo: archive, BGNES
In the early days of the counteroffensive, Ukraine moved forward with large mechanized groups and encountered unpleasant Russian defenses that included minefields and airstrikes. Kiev quickly returned to its previous practice of small landing units that advance deep, and this is bringing success to the south, albeit slower than desired, the Wall Street Journal reports in Zaporozhye Oblast.
Ukrainian units managed to enter Robotino on August 11, an important point on the way to Melitopol and Berdyansk on the coast of the Sea of Azov. This part of the front is essential for “cutting off” the supplies of the Russians and for the deoccupation of the Crimea.
The American edition notes that the progress is ensured by small groups – 10-15 people who move, directed by reconnaissance drones to the positions of the Russians. Often they even use trophy ammunition to have minimal baggage on their move. This is exactly how the village of Robotino was captured – with small landing groups that “cleared” the Russian positions around the town, it is clear from the report quoted by Investor.bg.
CNN also commented in a report from the scene that exploding Bradley armored vehicles and T-72 tanks could still be seen on the roads. The Ukrainian military says they learned the hard way not to underestimate their enemy. They are categorical – the counteroffensive is successful, and its speed depends on the fortifications of the Russians.
In the autumn, within a little more than two months, Ukraine managed to regain large parts of Kharkiv Oblast and Kherson, and expectations were high that this success would now be repeated. However, the Russians had months to build up their defenses. Experts point out that in some places it is three lines and includes deep trenches, minefields, “dragon’s teeth” – special equipment for stopping tanks, etc. After them, artillery was placed to shell the positions of the attackers.
Ukraine had planned to advance in the spring, but was delayed by both insufficient equipment and ammunition and heavy rains. It eventually activated its forces in early June, and analysts suggest that the best-prepared units have not yet entered the fray. In the Wall Street Journal report, for example, the soldiers who help take over Robotino are mobilized and had other responsibilities and commitments before the war.
The tactic of small assault units is also used in the Kherson region, it is clear from the publications of the military intelligence (GUR) on social networks. The Ukrainian military is now permanently entrenched on the left bank of the Dnieper River, according to geolocated data shared by CNN and the Institute for the Study of War.
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2023-08-12 04:39:00
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