Ukrainian defense forces have significantly strengthened their positions, while facing threats and provocations from Russian troops, who have become more active along the southwestern borders of the country

Chas Pravdy - 29 April 2025 16:18

The situation is especially tense on the Novopavlivskyi direction, where the aggressor is pushing towards the borders of three crucial regions – Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Donetsk. Local military personnel and analysts note that the current state of the situation cannot be called stable, as enemy activity has increased markedly, and battles in this sector of the front are fierce and prolonged. According to Vladyslav Voloshyn, spokesperson for the Southern Defense Forces, who shared this information in a recent television broadcast and was confirmed by news agencies, the enemy conducted at least 23 combat engagements on the Novopavlivskyi front over the past day. This indicates a deliberate storming tactic by Russian military forces aiming to break through the Ukrainian front and reach the borders of the three regions to seize strategically important territories. "The situation on the Novopavlivskyi direction has intensified, with the enemy carrying out 23 combat clashes over the past day. Fierce battles are ongoing there, and they are doing everything possible to break through our defensive positions and reach the borders of Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Donetsk regions," Voloshyn stated. Simultaneously, the situation remains tense on the Orihiv sector, particularly in the areas of Malia Shcherbaki, Lobkove, and Stepoe. The enemy seeks to break through the front line, creating a foothold for further actions. According to military sources, Russian positions are attempting to extend beyond traditional battle lines and establish themselves in the rear of Ukrainian forces to control logistics routes and minimize Ukraine's counterattack capabilities. This also risks endangering the functioning of Ukrainian command, logistical pathways, and even the city of Zaporizhzhia, which lies nearby. The situation along the Dnipro River banks, especially in the waters of Kherson region, remains equally concerning. Ukrainian defenders report that Russians are actively trying to gain control over islands in the Dnipro, which are strategically vital for controlling shipping and logistics. Although Ukrainian military units successfully destroy enemy ships, eliminating vessels as they appear, some Russian landing groups still carry out small landings on the islands. "There is usually one or two Russian soldiers remaining on the islands. They are playing 'Robinson Crusoe,' staying isolated and unable to evacuate. Their command regularly delivers food, water, and ammunition via drones. Sometimes, Russian soldiers surrender, but their numbers remain very limited," the spokesperson explained. Military experts also express concern over the increasingly frequent use of double strikes by the enemy, especially in Kherson. Voloshyn notes that Russian forces employ guided aerial bombs and kamikaze drones for pinpoint attacks on critical infrastructure and evacuation sites. "The enemy resorts to treacherous tactics—initially striking with air attacks, then, once rescue and emergency services arrive, launching artillery shelling and new drone-swarm attacks. This causes significant human and material damage, complicating the work of evacuation and rescue operations." In recent days, several such incidents have been recorded, including a third strike involving guided aerial bombs. Ukrainian defenders confirm that these enemy tactics are aimed not only at destroying military equipment and personnel but also at psychological pressure on civilians and military formations. Authorities and military personnel urge residents of the regions to exercise maximum caution, follow safety rules, and pay close attention to air raid alerts. Overall, the front line remains tense and unpredictable. Ukrainian forces are doing their utmost to strengthen defenses, mount counterattacks, and prepare for possible new provocations. Meanwhile, the enemy employs all available means to gain strategic advantages, making the war even more intense and tragic for hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians. Recognizing the risks and challenges, Ukraine remains steadfast in its fight for independence and territorial integrity.

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