The UK defense said in its intelligence report said that after securing Mariupol, Russian forces are expected to shift their focus to reinforcing their operations in the Donbas, according to the UK military ministry.
“Staunch Ukrainian resistance in Mariupol since the start of the war means Russian forces in the area must be re-equipped and refurbished before they can be redeployed effectively,” MoD said in a tweet.
“This can be a lengthy process when done thoroughly.”
The ministry said Russian commanders, on the other hand, are under pressure to demonstrate that operational goals are met. This implies Russia will most likely redeploy its soldiers without "adequate preparation, which risks further force attrition."
Meanwhile, as many as 1,700 Ukrainian soldiers are likely to have surrendered from the Mariupol Azovstal steel factory, the ministry said.
Picture Credits: AFP
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