UK Defence Intelligence considers Russia's next target following Vuhledar, Donetsk Oblast

UK Defence Intelligence forecasts that after the capture of the city of Vuhledar in Donetsk Oblast by the Russians, their next target will be the settlement of Velyka Novosilka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence update dated 5 October, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The intelligence report noted that the capture of Vuhledar occurred after the resumption of the Russian offensive campaign in September 2024. 

By the end of the month, the Russians had practically surrounded the city, leading to the withdrawal of the Ukrainian troops. 

Russia has made irregular attempts to capture Vuhledar over the past two years, suffering significant losses in the process.

Quote: "It is likely that Russian forces will attempt to continue advancing beyond Vuhledar in the coming weeks. To the west, one likely objective is the town of Velyka Novosilka, Zaporizhzhia on the T0509 highway. 8km to the north is the town of Bohoiavlenka," the report states.

Background:

• In one of its previous updates, UK intelligence analysed the situation around the Vovchansk Aggregate Plant, which was recently cleared of the Russians by Ukrainian forces. 
• Meanwhile, the Estonian Defence Forces Intelligence Centre suggests that Ukrainian forces may be forced to leave Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast by the end of the year.

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