Ukrainian Defence Forces are observing the movement of Russian light armoured vehicles and airborne units along parts of the front, but say the activity is primarily linked to rotations and replenishment of losses rather than preparations for a major offensive.
Southern Defence Forces spokesperson Vladyslav Voloshyn said that the observed transfers mainly involve equipment used by Russian airborne troops.
“We are recording certain redeployments of enemy equipment, primarily from their airborne forces — light armoured vehicles and BMDs (infantry fighting vehicles),” Voloshyn said. “But these are not large groupings that would indicate preparation for a large-scale offensive.”
According to him, the equipment is being used to replace losses, rotate units, and restore combat capability after sustained fighting.
He added that Russian forces suffered significant losses over the past week, including nearly 2,000 personnel and around 800 units of weapons and military equipment.
Voloshyn said the movements are aimed at restoring unit effectiveness, regrouping forces, and continuing limited assault operations on selected sections of the front.
He also reported a gradual increase in Russian combat activity following the so-called “Easter ceasefire,” which he said was not observed in practice.
“After the so-called Easter ceasefire — although it was not really a ceasefire — the enemy began increasing firepower, assault activity, and overall combat intensity throughout the week,” he said.
He noted that the Guliaipole direction in particular has seen intensified fighting, with around 80 assault operations recorded over the past week. Russian forces have been especially active near the settlements of Zaliznychne, Huliaipole, and Hirske, where they are attempting to advance toward the Zaporizhzhia region.
Additional fighting has been reported near Pryluky, Tsvitkove, Dobropillia, Varvarivka, Olenokostiantynivka, and Verkhnia Tersa, making the sector one of the most active along the front line.
Voloshin also said Russian forces have increased the use of air power. Over the past 24 hours alone, 21 airstrikes involving 130 guided aerial bombs were recorded.
Compared with the period before Easter, he said the number of guided bombs used has increased by around 20 percent. Over the first week after Easter, Russian forces reportedly lost nearly 1,800 personnel and about 800 units of weapons and equipment.
Despite the escalation in firepower, Voloshin said Russian activity has largely returned to pre-Easter levels, with some sectors experiencing even higher intensity of attacks.
