In several sectors, the intensity of fighting has decreased, but troop rotations, infiltration attempts and force build-ups indicate Russians are preparing for further offensive operations.
In the Sumy, Luhansk and Kharkiv regions, attacks are less intense than just a few weeks ago, yet the enemy’s actions point to likely preparations for an offensive as early as January, Lt. Col. Viktor Tregubov, head of communications for the Joint Forces grouping, said on Espreso TV.
According to him, along these axes Russian forces are now “closer to an ‘alcohol trip,’” with certain “nuances.” Still, their actions suggest they are likely getting ready to push on.
“There are constant regroupings, constant attempts at infiltration; they’re moving up. Most likely the Russian occupiers are preparing,” he said.
Tregubov said such activity could mean Russia’s military is trying to set conditions to continue a broader offensive this month.
A slowdown in fighting in Sumy, Luhansk and Kharkiv does not mean the enemy has “gone quiet.” Shelling of civilians by Russian forces continues, Tregubov added, recalling the January 2 strike on Kharkiv. A rocket hit a residential high-rise, leaving many injured.
“We see that the Russians are by no means sitting quietly. For now, the intensity of combat has slowed somewhat, which clearly relates to preparations for new ‘meetings’ in the new year,” he said.
On January 1, Tregubov said on a national telethon that in January the enemy would focus its forces on two directions. As Oboz.ua reports, he said Russia’s military plans to bypass Vovchansk in Kharkiv region and push toward Lyman in Donetsk region.
Also on January 2, Ukrainian journalist and political commentator Vitaliy Portnykov discussed whether Russia’s forces could seize new territory in Ukraine in 2026.
