As noted in the report, since the beginning of March, fierce fighting has continued in the Svatovo and Kremennaya regions in the north of the Lugansk region. Russia has partially regained control of the nearest approaches to the city of Kremennaya, which was under direct Ukrainian threat earlier this year. In some places, Russia has made progress up to several kilometers.
According to British intelligence, the Russian command is probably trying to expand the security zone to the west of the defensive lines they have prepared along the hills and integrate a natural obstacle in the form of the Oskol River. Most likely, they are trying to recapture the Kupyansk logistics hub.
Operationally, Russia’s intentions in the northeast remain defensive. “Commanders probably fear that this is one of the sectors where Ukraine could launch major offensives,” the British Defense Ministry said.
Recall, according to British intelligence, the threat of Bakhmut’s encirclement from the north to the south remains. However, the pressure on the city is easing, and the Armed Forces of Ukraine are conducting counterattacks.
