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British intelligence says Russian troops will move to the Donbass after Mariupol

As soon as Russia gains complete control of Mariupol, it is likely to move troops from the port city to strengthen the Donbass: British intelligence writes in an update on the situation in Ukraine, yet underlining the redeployment of troops. It can happen without adequate preparation and there is a possibility of further friction between the soldiers.

According to a report released by the London Ministry of Defense today, intelligence reports that 1,700 Ukrainian soldiers who were barricaded at the Azovstel steel plant have surrendered, while an unidentified group remains inside the plant.

The strong resistance of the Ukrainian army since the beginning of the occupation means that the Russian troops in the area must be re-equipped and replaced before they can be effectively deployed again. But it is a time consuming process if done carefully.

However, the report concludes that commanders are under pressure and need to prove that they can achieve certain operational goals: hence the potential for rapid deployment of Mariupol’s troops with relative risks.