Reporting From Ukraine:
https://www.youtube.com/@RFU/videosExcerpts from the video transcript:
[ New Russian Front Opened. Russian Forces Rapidly Push From The South! ]
Today [ Mar 21, 8 pm ], there is interesting news from the Zaphorizhia direction.
Russia aims to secure a more advantageous position before talks solidify the line of control, hoping to stake a stronger claim over a region where it already controls approximately 70% of the land, but crucially, not the regional capital of Zaphorizhia city itself. The current offensive seeks to take as much ground as possible while conditions still allow, to bolster Russia’s bargaining position in upcoming negotiations. To execute this strategy, Russia has launched an unexpected offensive in the region between Kamianske and Orikhiv. This area has been relatively stagnant for months, with no clear strategic reason to prioritize attacks there, until now. Initially, the Russian attack took Ukraine by surprise. Russian forces, spearheaded by the 108th Air Assault Regiment, made quick advances, exploiting a weak spot between the area of responsibility of two Ukrainian units.
However, Ukrainians quickly recognized the seriousness of the situation and responded in force. The battles escalated into intense engagements across multiple settlements, with Ukrainian forces determined to hold the line. The 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, one of Ukraine’s most experienced units, has been deployed to counter the Russian advance with some of its best drone units. While the situation remains serious, Ukrainian troops are now stabilizing the front and limiting Russian gains with already posted geolocated footage from the area showing how Ukrainian drone operators are hunting down Russian soldiers and equipment.
Overall, the offensive underscores the Russian approach to upcoming negotiations: take as much as possible now to negotiate from a position of strength later. While Russia may lack the forces to achieve a decisive breakthrough in Zaphorizhia, its attempt to seize additional land highlights the urgency of the situation. Ukraine’s ability to react quickly and prevent further Russian advances is crucial, not just for the immediate security of Zaphorizhia city, but also for the strategic landscape of the war.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhJP8LUAb0Q
