The situation remains intense in the area of responsibility of Ukraine's Joint Forces Grouping, with Russian forces continuing to press their offensive on the Lyman and Kupiansk fronts, according to Viktor Trehubov, head of the Joint Forces Grouping's Communications Department.
"The situation remains intense overall. The Russians continue to focus their main efforts in our area of responsibility, primarily on the Lyman axis and secondly on the Kupiansk axis," Trehubov said during a television interview.
He added that Russian forces are also continuing attempts to establish a zone of control along the entire Ukrainian-Russian border. According to Trehubov, one of the newer areas of pressure is toward Kozacha Lopan, where Russian troops are attempting to infiltrate.
Trehubov said Russian forces maintain a numerical advantage and possess sufficient reserves and ammunition to sustain offensive operations.
He noted that Ukraine's Defence Forces are holding back Russian advances through well-fortified positions, extensive drone operations, and an effectively organized "kill zone." He also confirmed that Russian forces continue to rely on small infantry assault groups while increasing their use of guided aerial bombs (GABs).
Asked about the biggest challenge facing Ukraine's Defence Forces, Trehubov pointed to Russia's manpower advantage.
"They currently have no shortage of personnel and can continue replenishing their forces, while we are experiencing certain mobilisation challenges," he said.
At the same time, he stressed that Ukraine retains several important advantages, including superior technology, better battlefield medical care, and stronger logistics across most sectors of the front.
Trehubov also said Russian forces are attempting to catch up with Ukraine in the use of unmanned ground systems but currently lag behind in the number of trained operators.
