Putin tries to "cement" demarcation line 

He said this during an Espreso TV channel broadcast.

"Enemy is striking in Vuhledar, and especially in the Siversk - Bakhmut arc. These assault actions function as offensive. It means they are putting operational pressure on our positions in the East. If we talk about a possible Kyiv offensive, then the Russians have huge problems in terms of means. We have built the Ukrainian Mannerheim Line [fortifications built by Finland on the Karelian Isthmus in the 20s-30s of the 20th century for defense from the Soviet Union, ed.] in the North. If they dare to attack, they will suffer consequences," noted Chernyk.

The expert claims that Putin is confident that their actions on the battlefield will lead to achieving negotiations with Ukraine.

"The Russians love symbols. In the East, their personnel losses figures are colossal due to the classic tactic of infantry waves. In January, the Russians lost more than 21 000 soldiers - more than in Afghanistan. They can send personnel for slaughter in the northern direction as well. The Russians are strategically trapped and have no idea how to get out. Putin has one goal: to "cement" the demarcation line. He will not spare the lives of his soldiers," Chernyk emphasized .

• On February 5, British intelligence reported that the main supply routes of the Armed Forces near Bakhmut might have been under enemy fire, and the Russians could have seized the route connecting the city with Siversk.

• The British Ministry of Defense informs that Russia intends to hold pseudo-elections in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine in order to justify their seizure.