UK intelligence: Russian generals fear Ukraine army's massive offensive in northern Luhansk

Russian generals are concerned about a massive offensive by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Luhansk region's north.

The UK Defence Ministry made the remarks in its daily intelligence update for March 23, Caliber.Az reports.

"Since the start of March  2023, heavy fighting has continued in parts of the Svatove-Kremina sector of the front line in northern Luhansk Oblast. Russia has partially regained control over the immediate approaches to Kremina town, which was under immediate Ukrainian threat earlier in the year.

"In places, Russia has made gains of up to several kilometres. Russian commandos are likely trying to expand a security zone west from the defence lines they have prepared along the higher ground and integrate the natural obstacle of the Oskil River. They likely seek to recapture Kupiansk, a logistics node.

"Operationally, Russia’s intent in the north-east likely remains defensive. Commanders probably fear this is one of the sectors where Ukraine could attempt major offensive operations," the update says.