Russian forces 'likely under increasing political pressure' as invasion anniversary draws near
Russian forces are "likely under increasing political pressure as the anniversary of the invasion draws near", according to the latest Ministry of Defence (MOD) intelligence update.
In their latest update on the situation in Ukraine, the MOD believes "it is likely that Russia will claim that Bakhmut has been captured to align with the anniversary, regardless of the reality on the ground".
Additionally, the update reported that "Russia continues to pursue several offensive axes in eastern Ukraine: Vuhledar, Kremina, and Bakhmut."
"Casualties reportedly remain high, particularly in Bakhmut and Vuhledar. Specifically, the 'elite' 155th and 40th Naval Infantry Brigades have sustained very high losses in Vuhledar and are likely combat ineffective," the MOD update said.
The intelligence also notes that "if Russia's spring offensive fails to achieve anything then tensions within the Russian leadership will likely increase".
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reiterated the UK's resolve in supporting Ukraine, saying that the UK became the first country to provide Ukraine with tanks and the first to offer training to Ukrainian pilots and marines.
The Prime Minister said at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Saturday, the West must give Ukrainian armed forces "advanced, Nato-standard capabilities" including longer-range weapons.
Mr Sunak said: "Together we must help Ukraine to shield its cities from Russian bombs and Iranian drones, that's why the United Kingdom will be the first country to give Ukraine longer-range weapons."
The move comes after Ukraine said it would use British long-range missiles – if supplied by the UK – to hit Russian forces inside Crimea.
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