Once Russia secures Mariupol, likely to reinforce operations in Donbas - British intelligence

The British Defense Intelligence shared their regular report.

Once Russia has secured Mariupol, it is likely they will move their forces to reinforce operations in the Donbas.

Stauch Ukrainian resistance in Mariupol since the start of war means Russian forces in the area must be re-equipped and refurbished before they can be redeployed effectively. This can be a lengthy process when done thoroughly. 

Russian commanders, however, are under pressure to demonstrably achieve operational objectives. Russia will probably redistribute their forces swiftly without adequate preparation, which risks further force attrition. 

1,700 Ukrainian soldiers have left Azovstal, but the number of Ukrainian forces inside the plant remains unknown.