Russia occupied 150 sq. km in Donetsk Oblast over past week – Estonian intelligence
Russian forces have managed to occupy approximately 150 sq. km in Donetsk Oblast over the past week.
Source: Estonian public broadcaster ERR, citing Colonel Ants Kiviselg, Head of the Estonian Defence Forces Intelligence Centre, as reported by European Pravda
Details: Kiviselg highlighted that Russian troops were advancing in Donetsk Oblast, noting that the Russians still hold the initiative along the entire front line, forcing Ukrainian forces into a gradual retreat.
Quote: "The Russian Armed Forces have been most successful in capturing areas in Donetsk Oblast, including towns of Pokrovsk, Kurakhove, Vuhledar and Velyka Novosilka. The Russian Federation has occupied an additional 150 sq. km in these areas over the past week."
He also mentioned signs suggesting that Russia might be preparing for ground offensives in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
Quote: "It is highly likely that the 76th Guards Air Assault Division, based in the Russian city of Pskov, will be involved in future assaults. The aim will be to capture new territory and further engage Ukrainian forces in this area."
In his summary, Kiviselg noted the possibility of a local Russian breakthrough this year in the Pokrovsk, Kurakhove or Vuhledar areas.
Background:
- UK intelligence has recently analysed Russian advances toward the town of Selydove in Donetsk Oblast, located en route to Pokrovsk.
- On 30 October, analysts from the DeepState project reported that Russian forces had occupied three more settlements in Donetsk, including Selydove.
- Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ General Staff reported that Russian forces had attempted to breach Ukrainian defences in the Pokrovsk area, particularly near Selydove, but were repelled.
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