Russia ramps up eastern offensive amid US warnings
Russia is preparing for a new offensive in Ukraine, gathering forces on the front lines. American officials warn of a possible attack in the eastern part of the country.
Russia strengthens its actions on the front, preparing for a possible new offensive in Ukraine. According to CNN, citing two American officials, Russian commanders aim to gather a large force to seize more territory in eastern Ukraine.
The first American official emphasized that Russia plans to concentrate its actions on capturing as much land as possible, up to the outskirts of Kyiv. "The Russians will do everything in their power to achieve their goals," added the second official, quoted by ukrinform.net.
CNN notes that these preparations are taking place at a time when Ukraine is struggling with a severe labour shortage on the battlefield. Meanwhile, Russia is also encountering difficulties in assembling the necessary forces.
American assessments indicate that Ukrainian drones and the effectiveness of minefields are holding Russia back, despite its numerical superiority both in eastern Ukraine and in the Kursk region.
The first official noted that there are no signs that North Korea is in a position to significantly increase its military engagement in Ukraine after losing thousands of soldiers in combat.
For several weeks, American assessments have shown no significant changes in Russia's war goals, even though the current U.S. administration is urging the Kremlin to adhere to a 30-day ceasefire and engage in peace talks.
CNN previously reported that in recent weeks Ukrainian forces have observed how Russia is moving a substantial number of troops and equipment to positions just a few dozen kilometres from the front lines.
USA criticizes Russia. "I don't believe it will happen"
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the lack of seriousness from Russia in talks about ending the war in Ukraine. During the NATO summit in Antalya, he stated that the delegation sent by Moscow gives no hope for real negotiations, and further unproductive meetings make no sense.
Rubio stated that there is no intention to continue pursuing this matter globally, acknowledging that the situation has already unfolded. He explained that the delegation came based on information suggesting that direct talks between Russia and Ukraine were possible—an expectation shared by others. However, he noted that such talks are now unlikely to occur, and if they do, they will not take place at the level that had initially been hoped for.
