Over 30,000 Russian Guard soldiers currently deployed to Ukraine - UK intelligence

More than 30,000 members of the Russian National Guard are currently deployed to Ukraine.

The UK Defense Ministry said this in an intelligence update on Ukraine, Ukrinform reports.

"It is highly likely that over 30,000 Rosgvardiya (Russian National Guard) personnel are currently deployed to Ukraine. The majority of Rosgvardiya's personnel are almost certainly conducting rear area security operations, with only a few units engaging in frontline fighting," the update said.

Read also: Enemy not ready for offensive operations in new sectors – Ukrainian intelligence

The ministry added that Rosgvardiya's premiere combat unit, the 116th Special Purpose Brigade, highly likely consists of three regiments of troops, with access to tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and artillery.

"Since the start of 2024, Rosgvardiya has almost certainly attempted to increase its frontline forces through absorbing Russian irregular formations. Rosgvardiya successfully integrated the Donetsk People's Republic Vostok Battalion into its ranks during May 2024. It is highly likely that the anticipated agreement for Wagner forces to serve under Rosgvardiya's 1st Volunteer Corps broke down in March 2024," the ministry said.