Armed Forces try to widen hole in Russian positions near Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, to move further
Ukrainian troops are trying to expand their foothold near the village of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast to advance further south.
Source: The New York Times, citing military analysts and the monitoring Black Bird Group
Details: The Ukrainian army has been fighting recently to break through Russian positions near the village of Verbove, about six miles (9.6 kilometres) east of Robotyne, military analysts said.
The Black Bird Group, an organisation that analyses satellite imagery and social media content, reported on Monday, 4 September, that Ukrainian soldiers had overcome obstacles on their way to Russian infantry positions on the outskirts of Verbove.
Oleksandr Shtupun, Spokesman for the Joint Press Centre of the Tavriia Operational and Strategic Group of Forces, earlier reported that the Russian trenches and dugouts that the Ukrainian military are currently facing near Verbove are "not as strong" as those on the first line of defence. At the same time, Shtupun added that minefields hamper the advance.
Military analysts with whom the NYT spoke suggest that Russia may have reinforced its defences outside Robotyne with additional troops.
They point out that the Ukrainian offensive eastwards towards Verbove seeks to widen the gap in the Russian defence. This is critical, as "a narrow advance could leave its forces vulnerable to counterattacks on the flanks". A wider gap would also allow Ukrainian troops to bring in more equipment and personnel to support their further advance south.
This offensive's strategic destination is the town of Tokmak, which lies approximately 15 miles (over 24 kilometres) south of Robotyne. Reaching it would require Ukrainian forces to completely break through the defences around Verbove and then overcome additional layers of defence.
Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
