British intelligence assesses Russia's ability to make operational breakthrough in Donetsk region

This was reported by the British Ministry of Defense on Twitter. 

British intelligence suggests that over the past three days, Russia may have turned its probing attacks around Pavlivka and Vuhledar in the Donetsk region into a more concerted assault.

The settlements are located 50 kilometers southwest of Donetsk. Russia previously used the 155th Marine Brigade in the area for an unsuccessful assault in November 2022. Its units are now part of a force, at least a brigade. It is likely to have advanced several hundred meters beyond the small Kashlahach River, which has marked the front line for several months.

"Russian commanders are likely aiming to develop a new axis of advance into Ukrainian-held Donetsk Oblast, and to divert Ukrainian forces from the heavily contested Bakhmut sector. There is a realistic possibility that Russia will continue to make local gains in the sector. However, it is unlikely that Russia has sufficient uncommitted troops in the area to achieve an operationally significant breakthrough.” 

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 31 January 2023

Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/LEQzjzWkCH

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— Ministry of Defence ???????? (@DefenceHQ) January 31, 2023

• On January 27, British intelligence exposed Russia's disinformation about its successes near Vuhledar.