The number of fortifications Russia has installed in the Zaporizhzhia region since 2022 is more than double those erected in other regions of Ukraine where fighting is taking place, the report found, citing satellite data.
Zaporizhzhia has become a focal point of intensified fighting in recent days as Ukrainian forces mount an offensive that military analysts say is an effort to sever Moscow’s hold on territory connecting Russia to occupied Crimea.
Satellite images suggest that at least some of the Russian fortifications are of low quality, Mr. Jones said.
Others sit on top of the earth, when they are supposed to be partly underground, or appear to be eroded by weather, it added.
Ultimately, Mr. Jones said, regardless of their quality, fortifications “are only as good as the forces that are defending them.”
Persons:
”, Seth G, Jones, Alexander Palmer, Joseph S, Bermudez Jr, —
Organizations:
Center for Strategic, International Studies, ”
Locations:
Russia, Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia, Moscow, Europe, Washington, Dnipro, Crimea, Melitopol, France