According to Ukrainian military officials, Russian forces are getting ready for a potential attack in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, with a focus on the areas near Orikhiv and Robotyne. The operation could begin in a matter of days and aims to disrupt important supply routes from Zaporizhzhia to the eastern front.
Last year, Ukrainian troops were able to liberate a strategic area south of Orikhiv in Zaporizhzhia Oblast during a failed counteroffensive. However, this year, there has been limited action in the area, as Russian efforts have been primarily focused on frontal assaults in Donetsk Oblast.
Vladislav Voloshyn, spokesperson for the Defense Forces of the South, stated on October 5th that Russian forces are forming new assault groups in the Orikhiv direction, as reported by Liga. He also warned that the invaders are likely to intensify their attacks in the coming days. The Ukrainian military is concerned that a Russian breakthrough in the Orikhiv and Mala Tokmachka (Robotyne salient) area could put Ukrainian logistical routes under fire control. These routes are crucial for supplying Ukrainian forces defending the front in Donetsk Oblast and parts of Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
Voloshyn explained, “Therefore, the enemy will try at any cost to take this under control in order to cut off our logistics. That’s why they are carrying out assault actions and preparing new ones in this direction.” According to Ukrainian intelligence shared by Voloshyn, Russia is transferring personnel, conducting reconnaissance, and providing logistical support to prepare new assault groups near Orikhiv and Robotyne.
The Russian forces are reportedly using a tactic of small assault groups, typically consisting of up to ten troops. These groups often use small, high-speed vehicles like motorcycles, buggies, and ATVs to quickly reach Ukrainian trenches while avoiding mine-explosive barriers.
Voloshyn also mentioned ongoing counterbattery combat, shelling of defender positions, and Russian strikes on settlements near the front line. In the past 24 hours, there have been over 400 such shellings and strikes in Zaporizhzhia Oblast alone. This tactic has been successful for Russia in other areas, and they may continue to use it in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
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