Ukrainian intelligence estimates have stated that Russia does not have any substantial strategic reserves left. The head of Ukraine’s defence intelligence agency, the HUR, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov reported that Russia’s 25th Combined Arms Army is now deployed prematurely on the Eastern Front at Lyman and Kupyansk.
This deployment includes only 80 per cent of the planned troops and 55 per cent of the necessary equipment.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s counteroffensive is still ongoing, and the muddy season is still more than a month away. Budanov reported that Russia’s initial defence line has already been penetrated in certain regions, potentially allowing the land bridge between Russia and Crimea to be severed before winter hits.
Ukraine’s intelligence chief insisted that he does not understand those who predicted a quick collapse of the Russian lines, saying: “Is a pencil strong or weak? It depends how you look at it. The counter-offensive is ongoing. Ukraine still has time.”
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