Russia Steps Up Assault in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Region
Russian forces have increased their attack operations in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine, putting pressure on Ukrainian positions. This was stated by Vladyslav Voloshyn, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s Southern Defense Forces.
The Ukrainian military reports that hostilities are escalating and key areas are being targeted. The Zaporizhzhia Oblast is strategically important for Russia, which is why it wants to advance in the region before potential ceasefire negotiations.
Voloshyn said Russian forces have used small infantry groups for assault operations, similar to tactics employed in other sectors. This tactic has been successful near Orikhiv and Hulyaypole. The number of such attacks has increased since spring began.
The Zaporizhzhia Oblast is located in southeastern Ukraine and borders several regions. It also contains the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, one of Europe’s largest.
Russian forces control parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts. Moscow claims to have annexed these territories but has not fully controlled their regional capitals.
A Kremlin-linked official stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot afford to lose these territories politically. Therefore, holding them is a priority at any cost.
Ukraine’s Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Vladyslav Voloshyn said Russia wants to gain as much advantage as possible in Zaporizhzhia Oblast before negotiations for a ceasefire or peace deal.
A transitional administration overseen by the U.N. and several countries could be formed to organize elections, suggested Putin. However, this is unlikely to be accepted by Ukraine.
At least 19,500 Ukrainian children have been abducted since Russia’s invasion began. Only about 1,200 have returned.
Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the launch of a new nuclear-powered submarine named Perm on March 26.