Ukraine’s Joint Forces say whether Russia could launch offensive in new directions, northern in particular 

He shared his opinions in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.

Nayev assessed whether Russia could launch an offensive in the foreseeable future in any areas other than those where it is operating today, namely Lyman, Kupiansk, Bakhmut, Avdiivka, and Shakhtarsk.

"Given that the enemy has focused its efforts on developing an offensive in Luhansk and Donetsk regions, there are not enough forces and means to conduct offensive actions in other operational areas," he said.

However, according to the Joint Forces Commander, Russian forces are trying to create the impression that they are preparing offensives in other operational areas, primarily in Zaporizhzhia, to distract the Ukrainian military command.

As for the situation on the northern borders, the Russian army is not ready to conduct offensive actions in the northern direction, but the Ukrainian Armed Forces understand and anticipate possible scenarios.

"Based on the probable nature of the enemy's actions, we are taking a full range of measures to ensure the readiness of subordinate groups for any Russian actions - from repelling air and missile strikes, preventing the actions of its sabotage forces to repelling a second invasion," Nayev emphasized.

Thus, in order to prevent Russian troop’s sudden actions, all types of intelligence have been intensified. The situation is being monitored, including with the engagement of air and space reconnaissance means, using information provided by partner countries. The protection and cover of the state border of Ukraine has also been strengthened. In cooperation with the Air Force, troops and critical infrastructure are being protected from Russian air and missile strikes.

The lieutenant general noted that the constructed system of engineering barriers played a significant role in deterring the aggression. Without engineering equipment of positions it is impossible to stop Russia’s superior forces.

"The experience of combat operations has shown that the use of minefields in combination with the fire system reduced the enemy's combat potential, disrupted the pace of its offensive and created favorable conditions for counter-offensive actions by our troops. Therefore, we have significantly increased the system of mine and non-explosive barriers, both directly on the state border and in the depths of defense. We have mined the terrain, created mined rubble and anti-tank ditches on sections of roads and routes of possible enemy advancement," Nayev said.

The Joint Forces add that in order to increase the sustainability of defense, the fortification equipment of the defense borders is being improved, including through the installation of long-term fortifications. A system of training for military command and control bodies, military units and subunits has also been deployed.

"This complex covers a wide range of issues, from individual training to company and battalion exercises. Reserves are being trained, artillery units are preparing for firing missions, and UAV operators are being trained," Nayev said.

• Earlier, the spokesperson for the Eastern Military Group, Serhiy Cherevatyi, said that Russian troops could not complete the operation to capture Bakhmut.

• The Institute for the Study of War believes that Russia's spring offensive in Donbas is likely approaching its culmination.