Russia targets Kostiantynivka to find launch point for offensive - war veteran Hetman

He shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

“There’s a 5-6 km distance between Russian troops, and it’s possible to target supply routes with artillery and mortars. A small distance between enemy flanks is dangerous as it complicates supply lines, not just for ammunition and shells but also for water and food. If the situation worsens and encirclement seems likely, an order to withdraw troops should be given. It’s unpleasant to retreat from some positions, but we knew from the start of the Russian spring-summer offensive that withdrawals might be necessary,” explains Hetman.

The war veteran also notes the challenging situation in the Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Chasiv Yar directions, “Russian movements towards the Pokrovsk-Kostiantynivka route and attempts to reach Kostiantynivka are likely, as it’s a key railway used actively by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.”

Regarding the potential encirclement, Major Hetman said, "I’m confident that commanders on the ground fully understand the tactical situation. According to combat regulations, they have the authority to make decisions on repositioning or withdrawal if encirclement seems likely. To avoid any claims of retreating without orders, there are specific rules outlined in the combat statutes. If encirclement is highly probable and justified, they have the right to make decisions independently, rather than waiting for someone fearful in the rear to issue orders, fearing criticism for potential mistakes."

• Serhiy Zgurets, Defense Express CEO and military expert, noted that 2024 is not associated with large-scale offensive actions by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
• Dmytro Zhmailo, co-founder and executive director of the Ukrainian Centre for Security and Cooperation, noted that more than a third of Russia's main efforts are concentrated in the Pokrovsk direction in the Donetsk region.