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"On Point"
MINSK, 27 July (BelTA) - Both Ukraine and Russia are making preparations for potential offensive operations, Andrei Bogodel, Head of the Education and Methodology Department of the Faculty of the General Staff of the Armed Forces at the Military Academy of Belarus, said in the latest episode of the V Teme [On Point] project on BelTA's YouTube channel.
“The truth likely lies somewhere in between - both sides are clearly preparing for offensive actions. There are multiple indicators suggesting this,” Andrei Bogodel stated.
The expert cited troop buildup and equipment movements as some of military intelligence indicators. “Reports suggest Russia has amassed around 160,000 personnel, plus approximately 30,000 North Korean soldiers. Meanwhile, Ukraine is redeploying significant forces from its northern border. Eastern Ukraine shows a notable absence of heavy armor - few tanks, limited aviation, and scarce artillery. While drones dominate trench warfare, this equipment vacuum suggests strategic regrouping,” Andrei Bogodel said. Russia has begun targeting previously untouched infrastructure. “These are western Ukrainian sites, foreign-owned factories, and even a flooring materials plant. Critical strikes on Odessa's port facilities, depots, and mobilization centers indicate preparations for deep operations,” the expert added.
Andrei Bogodel also mentioned the recent visit of U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg to Kyiv. “This is evidence of military planning discussions. We saw Russia's unusual restraint in striking the capital during his stay. The 50-day ultimatum, coupled with events in Azerbaijan, Central Asia, Iran, and Syria, suggests coordinated efforts to disperse Russian attention,” Andrei Bogodel added.
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