Ukrainian Forces continue to take offensive action on the Orikhiv axis in the south of Ukraine, with units reaching the first russian main defensive line, the UK Defense Intelligence reports. Russian forces, primarily composed of the 58 Combined Arms Army and russian Airborne Forces elements, seek to halt the Ukrainian counteroffensive whilst maintaining their own offensive on the northern axis around Kupiansk.
Russian forces are likely seeking to distract Ukraine from its counteroffensive, thereby forcing it to divide its forces between Orikhiv and Kupiansk. Given that russia has made modest gains near Kupiansk since the Ukrainian counteroffensive began in June, they are highly likely seeking to capitalise on these by continuing to resource the axis. However, russia risks dividing its forces as it seeks to prevent a Ukrainian breakthrough.
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