Ukraine assures control amid Russian threats in Zaporizhzhia
President Volodymyr Zelensky assures that Ukraine controls the situation in the Zaporizhzhia region, despite threats of a possible Russian offensive.
- Ukraine is aware of the threats related to a possible Russian offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region, but it is in control of the situation - said President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday. Earlier, media reported that Russia is preparing a significant attack there.
After a meeting with General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Zelensky emphasized that the most intense fighting is currently occurring in the Kurakhove sector of the Donetsk region. In the part of the Kursk region occupied by Ukraine, defence positions are being maintained with the goal of significantly weakening Russian capabilities in the border area.
Ukrainian intelligence warns
The British weekly "Economist" previously reported that Ukrainian intelligence anticipates a possible Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia. According to Kyiv, Moscow may involve up to 130,000 troops in the offensive. Zaporizhzhia, the main city of the Zaporizhzhia region, is located approximately 30 kilometres from the front line and is crucial for the Ukrainian economy.
Before Russia's invasion, over 700,000 people lived in Zaporizhzhia. Currently, Ukrainians are strengthening the city's defences by building fortifications, minefields, and structures made of concrete and iron.
At the end of 2022, Vladimir Putin announced the annexation of the entire Zaporizhzhia region, although only one-third of this area remains under Russian control. Zaporizhzhia is one of Ukraine's three main industrial centres, making it strategically important for the country.
