**Russian Troops Ordered to Create 10-Kilometer Buffer Zone in Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk Oblast**
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Ukraine’s military intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov revealed that Russian troops have been tasked with establishing a buffer zone up to 10 kilometers deep into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. This development comes as Russian forces continue their offensive in the neighboring Donetsk Oblast, pushing closer to the major industrial region of central Ukraine.
**Russian Goals and Motivations**
According to Budanov, Russia’s earlier announcement of its entry into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was a political move rather than a military operation. This suggests that Moscow is trying to create a sense of momentum and control in the region, even if it doesn’t necessarily intend to hold onto all of it. It’s not realistic for Russia to seize all of Donetsk Oblast by the end of the year, Budanov said.
**Previous Denials and Russian Claims**
Just last month, Ukraine’s military denied reports that Russian troops had entered Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed at the time that Ukrainian troops had intercepted Russian reconnaissance units attempting to breach the region. However, on July 7, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have seized the village of Dachne, which would mark the first village under Russian control in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
**The Reality on the Ground**
Despite these claims, it’s clear that Dnipropetrovsk Oblast lies further west and has not seen significant Russian incursions. However, the region is frequently targeted with missile, drone, and aerial bomb strikes. Russian troops have been escalating their assaults in the area and are attempting to breach into the region.
**What Does This Mean for Ukraine?**
This development raises concerns about the security of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and its people. With Russian forces pushing closer to the region, it’s essential that Ukraine’s military remains vigilant and prepared to defend its territory.
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