Saturday, December 4th 2021
Offensive in the Ukraine conflict
Signs of Russian attack are growing
The massive deployment of Russian forces near the Ukrainian border is causing tension. According to a US media report, Moscow is planning a major offensive with around 175,000 soldiers. The Ukrainian defense minister fears an attack in a few weeks.
In the conflict with Ukraine, according to a US media report, Russia is planning an offensive on several fronts with up to 175,000 soldiers in the coming year. According to the Washington Post, citing a senior US government official, Moscow’s plans are to include “extensive movements of a hundred battalions of tactical units with an estimated 175,000 men, along with tanks, artillery and equipment”.
The Pentagon refused to comment on the report when asked. However, the ministry was “deeply concerned about indications that Russia has forged plans to take aggressive action against Ukraine”. Washington supports “further de-escalation in the region and a diplomatic solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine,” said Pentagon spokesman Tony Semelroth.
According to the newspaper report, the Russian armed forces are currently gathering at four points. Accordingly, 50 tactical battle groups as well as tanks and artillery are involved in the deployment of troops. The Washington Post referred to an unspecified document from the US secret services. The movements towards and away from the border are intended to obscure the tactical approach and stir up uncertainty.
Moscow denies allegations
In view of a massive deployment of Russian forces on the border with Ukraine, there have long been fears that Russia could attack the neighboring country. Moscow rejects such allegations. In return, the Kremlin accuses Ukraine of letting the West arm itself with military equipment and denounces NATO military maneuvers near the Russian borders.
Ukraine fears an attack by Russia in a few weeks’ time. “The most likely time for escalation is the end of January,” said Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksi Resnikov. The Ukrainian secret service is currently analyzing all possible scenarios.
US President Joe Biden and Russian President Putin are scheduled to meet at a video summit next week. Biden said in the White House on Friday that he was taking a series of measures to prevent a Russian invasion of Ukraine.