Russia concentrating forces in eastern Ukraine and planning to seize Kharkiv, Mariupol and Odesa

The relevant statement was made by Ukrainian Defense Deputy Minister Hanna Maliar during the UA:Razom nationwide telethon, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“The war continues. Despite the fact we are strongly resisting, despite the heroism of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, despite the liberation of Kyiv Region, we must understand that the risk of escalation, the likelihood of missile strikes, including those on big cities, is persisting. Even talking of the liberated cities, we must also understand that the war continues. Today, the enemy is not giving up on their intent to capture Ukraine. Now the fierce war is raging, the fierce battle for every inch of our land and for every settlement,” Maliar stressed.

In her words, the liberation of Kyiv Region, Chernihiv Region and Sumy Region does not indicate the surrender of the enemy. Russian invaders are concentrating forces in other regions, partially retreating to Belarus and regrouping. Today, eastern Ukraine is at a high risk, and the enemy’s goal is to seize Kharkiv, Mariupol and Odesa.

A reminder that, on February 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated a full-scale invasion against Ukraine, starting a war. Russian troops are shelling and destroying the key infrastructure facilities, launching missile strikes on residential areas in Ukrainian cities and villages, killing civilians.