Russia prioritizes Pokrovsk for combat operations, eyes assaults on Kherson, Zaporizhzhia

This was stated by Major General Vadym Skibitskyi, Deputy Head of Ukrine's Main Intelligence Directorate, in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.

"They have clearly identified the most critical and strategic areas for military operations. First and foremost, these include the Pokrovsk direction, Toretsk, and Chasiv Yar, where they aim to complete all planned operations. Additionally, Kupiansk is a key focus. We are aware of Russia's intentions, including the potential for assault and offensive actions in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions," Skibitskyi stated.

He emphasized that the threat he outlined remains a concern, pointing to Moscow's claims that Kherson and Zaporizhzhia are now part of Russia, having been "incorporated into the Russian constitution." The Kremlin will make every effort to secure control over these territories.

When asked about the possibility of Russian offensives in the Dnipropetrovsk region, Skibitskyi responded: "First, we need to assess whether the Russian Federation will succeed in its goal of reaching the borders of the Dnipropetrovsk region."

"If Russia succeeds, the threat of conducting assault actions, reconnaissance missions, and further reducing the range of Russia's artillery and multiple launch rocket systems targeting our infrastructure will significantly increase," added the Deputy Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate.

He stressed that the decrease in combat intensity should not be mistaken for a shift in Russia’s plans. According to Skibitskyi, this period is being used by Russia to refine their plans for future offensives, prepare personnel, replenish ammunition, and ready themselves for assault operations.

"We are closely monitoring the recruitment efforts for the Russian Federation’s armed forces. For instance, in January, they exceeded their recruitment goals by 107%. This issue remains pressing, and the Russian authorities are facing no challenges in replenishing their troops and replacing losses," he explained.

Skibitskyi noted that despite the decrease in combat intensity, the Russian military presence remains substantial, with over 620,000 troops stationed in the temporarily occupied territories and the Kursk region.

"When discussing the ground component, we're talking about around 620,000 personnel, with more than 200,000 of them being assault units actively engaged in combat and stationed at the front lines. Additionally, there are 35,000 Russian National Guard soldiers tasked with securing occupation authorities and protecting critical sites in the occupied areas," the Major General explained.

Skibitskyi also highlighted the role of Russian soldiers in logistical support, units of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, and aviation assets, which, while not based directly in combat zones, are involved in conducting strikes.

"The aggressor is currently utilizing over 20 airfields and aviation bases across Russia to carry out both bombing and missile strikes on our territory," he added.

• While U.S. leaders insist that Ukraine was "not in a very good position," on the battlefield, Ukrainian forces are counterattacking in key areas along the 800-mile front.