The second counterattack in the Ukrainian war has been going on for weeks. A general who spreads hope for faster progress and anticipates difficult times.

KYIV – It is clear that the counteroffensive in the Ukrainian war is moving forward. After reports came in a few days ago that troops from Kiev had broken through the Russian defense line at an important point in the Zaporizhia region, Brigadier General Oleksandr Tarnavsky is now commenting on the recent successes.

Counterattack in the Ukraine War: “We are between the first and second lines”

In the British Sunday newspaper observerThe officer leading the southern offensive says he estimates Russia has invested 60 percent of its time and equipment in building the first line and only 20 percent in the next two. Because Moscow did not imagine that the Ukrainians would be able to conquer the front row.

But Tarnavsky asserts, „We are now between the first and second lines,” confirming reports of the past few days. And even if this statement could not be independently verified, like a lot of information in the war. Its units are now deployed on both sides to tighten control over the recaptured territory.

Ukrainian general on the counterattack: „The Russians will run out of best soldiers”

For weeks, Russian mines held back progress, while the invaders’ fighters lurked behind them and downed vehicles with grenades and drones. But now the opponents are forced to maneuver as the Ukrainians advance with tanks and other armored vehicles.

According to Tarnavsky, Moscow has deployed units to the region from Kherson in the west and Liman in northeastern Ukraine, as well as from Russia itself. This indicates that the military leadership feels pressure from its subordinates. Sooner or later, the Russians will run out of their best soldiers. This will give us an incentive to attack harder and faster,” the general rejoices.

Video: Ukraine announces the restoration of control over the southeast

Russia is under pressure: ousted General Popov is said to be in contact with the troops

As well as the one that spread through Facebook Report of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine indicates progress. Accordingly, the attack continued in the Melitopol sector, with nine attacks on military sites and two on anti-aircraft missile systems. Among other things, twelve artillery pieces, two ammunition depots and an air defense system were hit.

Think Tank Institute for the Study of War referred to in the meantime On Russian military bloggersAccording to which Ivan Popov is in contact with the Russian forces in Zaporizhia. A few weeks ago, the general was removed from his post as commander-in-chief of the 58th Army of Moscow’s Armed Forces stationed in Ukraine – he announced it himself and explained the move through an intervention with his superiors.

It is now said that his former subordinates turned to him when they got into increasing trouble. Instead of waiting for the new leadership or the general staff, the officers are Prefer to be in touch with Popov kick.

Criticism of the counterattack: The Ukrainian general refers to the problem of minefields

And although the 48-year-old has been recruited, he appears to have his hands on the game. And also to deal with his Ukrainian counterpart Tarnavsky. He answers in saying observer– Interview also with criticism of Ukrainian tactics on the battlefield, apparently expressed from the support camp.

„When we started the counterattack…we spent more time than we expected clearing the areas of mines. Unfortunately, evacuating the casualties was also difficult, which complicated our progress,” the brigadier added.

But at the same time he emphasized again how important the recent advance was: “I think the Russians assumed that the Ukrainians would not break through their line of defence. They have been preparing for this for more than a year. They have done everything to make sure everything is well prepared.”

Ukraine and the counterattack: „Unfortunately, we are losing the strongest and the best”

Previously, infantry had to clear mines at night, as the Russians would immediately fire and destroy any military equipment moving close to their lines. „There is a big difference between the first and second line of defence,” Tarnowski notes.

According to this, his units could now use vehicles to advance further despite the presence of more minefields. Here, they will not encounter a Russian defense belt, but rather several units operating in the area.

But there is still a long way to go before the invaders are defeated. “The closer you get to victory, the more difficult it becomes. Why? Because, unfortunately, we lose the strongest and the best,” explains Tarnavski: “That’s why we now have to focus on certain areas and get the job done. No matter how difficult it is for us.” (mg)