Russia is preparing a major offensive in Ukraine for the end of May or Juneб – Financial Times

Russian military forces are preparing for a major offensive on the front lines at the end of May or in June.

This is reported by the Financial Times, citing its sources in the Main Intelligence Directorate.

According to their information, in preparation for this operation, Russia is launching missile strikes on Kharkiv and other strategically important cities, “softening the battlefield.” A source from Bild in the Ukrainian Armed Forces stated that they fear an attack on Kharkiv involving 20-40 thousand Russian soldiers.

“Then we will have to decide whether we want to defend the north or the east. Doing both is impossible,” the military claims.

Another Ukrainian military official also believes that Kharkiv will be the most likely target of the impending Russian offensive. According to him, the Ukrainian Armed Forces “cannot do anything” without ammunition and missiles for air defense systems. Currently, Ukrainian forces are constructing several lines of anti-tank barriers not only in the south of the country but also along the border with the Belgorod, Kursk, and Bryansk regions.

“After two years, the Russians have realized how effectively to use their forces for offensive operations. Now, along the front line, they are dropping countless bombs. Not like before – only on a few insignificant positions, but on every building that we hold,” commented a Ukrainian officer on the situation.

However, the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) believes that “well-equipped Ukrainian forces are likely to be able to prevent Russia’s offensive.”

It is worth noting that up to this point, Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly stated that they do not see any signs of Russia preparing for an offensive on Kharkiv.