Russia deploys 10,000 elite paratroopers near Robotyne — British intelligence

The UK Ministry of Defence shared the information in its usual report.

It noted that over the past two weeks, Russia has likely further strengthened the 58th Combined Arms Army, which is in a difficult situation, with additional airborne units of the Airborne Forces in the Orikhiv direction, Zaporizhzhia region.

"A total of at least five VDV regiments drawn from the 7th and 76th divisions are likely now concentrated within several kilometres of the frontline village of Robotyne. At full strength, such a force should constitute around 10,000 elite paratroopers. However, almost all units are highly likely dramatically under strength," British intelligence emphasizes.

According to the British Ministry of Defence, the current situation is likely to be perceived by the airborne forces' leadership as extremely unsatisfactory.

"Throughout the war Russian commanders have attempted to regenerate the airborne forces as a highly mobile, striking force for offensive operations. Once again, they are being used as line infantry to augment over-stretched ground forces," the ministry added.

• Since the beginning of the counteroffensive in early June 2023, the Ukrainian military has already liberated 51 square kilometers in the Bakhmut direction and 261.7 square kilometers on the southern front.