British Defence Intelligence: Most Russian Troops Went On The Defensive In Ukraine.

Most of the Russian troops went on the defensive in Ukraine.

Russia probably ordered the withdrawal of its troops from the entire occupied Kharkiv region west of the Oskil River because of the offensive of the Ukrainian army. There are still centres of resistance in this sector, but since Wednesday Ukraine has reclaimed an area at least twice the size of County London, according to British Defence Intelligence.

At the same time, in southern Ukraine, near Kherson, Russia is still trying to move sufficient reserves across the Dnieper to the frontline.

“The makeshift pontoon bridge that Russia started building more than two weeks ago remains unfinished. Ukrainian long-range artillery is now probably hitting the Dnieper crossings so often that Russia cannot repair the damaged bridges,” said British Defence analysts.

They believe Ukraine's rapid advance has serious implications for Russia's overall plan of operations.

“Most forces in Ukraine are likely forced to prioritize emergency defence action. The already limited confidence of the troops in the top military leadership of Russia is likely to worsen further,” the British Defence Intelligence indicated.