Russian army will intensify offensive in May-June, try to attack Pokrovsk - Ukraine's Defense Intelligence chief

He said this in an interview with the German TV channel ARD.

"We expect Russian offensive actions to intensify in late spring and early summer, especially in the Donetsk region. They will move a little bit towards Chasiv Yar and towards the city of Pokrovsk, which will be a strategic direction," Budanov said.

As of now, the frontline from Pokrovsk is located about 35 kilometers from Avdiivka and 60 kilometers from Bakhmut.

Budanov believes that there will be no significant changes on the frontline before the expected Russian offensive.

"The situation is quite complicated, but it is under control," he said.

At the same time, he did not rule out a Ukrainian offensive this year. However, the DIU chief did not want to elaborate on this topic, as it depends on the availability of ammunition, in particular, the Czech initiative. So far, Budanov does not feel the presence of these shells at the front.

• President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in late March that Russia could launch a new offensive in Ukraine in late May or June this year. According to him, Russia has an advantage in an "artillery war of attrition" due to its long-range firepower.