Russians are currently attempting to seize the initiative and achieve at least some level of success in Ukraine. This is necessary to create a successful image for the dictator Vladimir Putin.
Tarmo Kundla, the head of the Operational Department of the Estonian General Staff, made this statement and reported that Russian soldiers have intensified their attacks on the Avdiivka-Marinka and Kup'yansk-Lyman directions. Their primary task now is likely to "achieve at least some success that can be presented to the public as a victory."
Kundla specified that the Russians currently have two goals.
"Firstly, the creation of a successful military image is important for Putin in light of the upcoming presidential elections next year. It is also necessary for the Minister of Defense, Shoigu, to strengthen his position within the ministry and slow down the Ukrainian counteroffensive."
According to the head of the Operational Department of the Estonian General Staff, Ukraine will continue its raids in the Kherson region, "just as in previous weeks." This is a tactic to engage Russian troop concentrations in the region.
He added, "Some pieces of information indicate that Russia has moved additional units there, so it is likely that everything is developing according to Ukraine's plan."
