A veteran multirotor drone operator and reserve Ukrainian infantryman has observed a massive Russian troop concentration near Kramatorsk, signaling a prepared escalation in Donbas, where armor columns and mechanized units are being rapidly repositioned.
2600 Russians Massed South of Kramatorsk
As of late August 2023, over 2000 infantry and airborne troops from Russia’s Novaya Rusich Marines and 76th Air Assault Division have been observed redeploying from their failed Sumy offensives, with another 600 troops from the 70th Motorized Division joining the concentration. The troop movements are traced via videos of unit supply transports moving through occupied Ukraine.
Russian Concentration Signals Breakthrough Attempt
DeepState analyzed the troop concentrations as likely aiming to secure critical positions around Psycholivka and Izyum, breaking through Ukrainian lines near Kramatorsk-Shevchenko. Control of these areas would sever Ukrainian defenses and shift Russian positions closer to strategic urban centers.
Most Significant Armored Deployment Since 2022
The significant redeployment of mechanized forces reflects a strategy shift, with combat illustrations showing a return to traditional armored warfare. After months of unproductive static warfare, Ukraine managed to mount counterattacks, wounding Russian forces and denting their momentum.
Largest Russian Concentration in Months
Russian troop movements have been limited following Ukrainian counterattacks nearPokrovske in late August, with operators like Ivan Franko’s SBU surveillance units documenting Russian armor deployments.
