Up to 130,000 soldiers could be deployed as Ukraine anticipates an offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region.

Up to 130,000 soldiers could be deployed to battle: Ukraine anticipates an offensive in Zaporizhzhia

Ukrainian intelligence believes that Russia is preparing for an offensive in Zaporizhzhia, according to the British magazine The Economist.

"Ukrainian intelligence assesses that Russia is preparing for a bold assault on the city of Zaporizhzhia, which is located 30 km from the front lines. When exactly this will happen is uncertain, but it makes strategic sense. As one of the three remaining centers of heavy industry in the country, the regional center is critically important for Ukraine's survival as a functioning state," the publication states.

The Russian army is expected to number over one hundred thousand troops in this area.

"A Ukrainian representative warns that soon, up to 130,000 Russian soldiers may be sent into battle," the article mentions.

Meanwhile, "Ukraine is not taking risks" and is constructing fortifications in the Zaporizhzhia region.

"New fortifications are being built in concentric rings radiating from the regional center. The work is being carried out thoroughly — with minefields, engineering obstacles, and concrete and iron structures — unlike the more chaotic situation in the neighboring Donetsk region," the report indicates.

At the same time, it is noted that not all Ukrainian military officials believe that an attack on Zaporizhzhia is inevitable.

The Economist also writes that Ukraine's problems on the front lines are primarily exacerbated by staffing issues. It is highlighted that the army has long faced a shortage of volunteers, and the mobilization campaign has faltered, barely achieving two-thirds of the planned recruitment.

"A senior Ukrainian official expresses concern that the situation may become irreversible by spring," the material states.

The publication points out that an even greater issue is the quality of the recruits. In particular, a significant number are over 45 years old and have health problems.