Russians lack resources for offensive on Zaporizhzhia – military

This opinion was shared by Serhii Bratchuk, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Volunteer Army South, on Ukrainian Radio, as reported by Ukrinform.

"Russia is trying to amplify these topics (about a potential offensive – ed.), particularly concerning Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, through extensive information campaigns. They are investing significant effort in this area and exaggerating events in these locations, including regional centers like Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, where such events are not actually occurring. Their aim is to push this narrative primarily through social media, and unfortunately, some of our media amplify these claims, which do not reflect reality," Bratchuk stated.

Speaking about Zaporizhzhia and parts of Zaporizhzhia region that are temporarily occupied, Bratchuk noted some enemy movements in areas such as Robotyne, Orikhiv, and Huliaipole directions. Intense fighting is ongoing near Velyka Novosilka in Donetsk region, a critical junction between three regions — Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Donetsk.

"Although the enemy is attempting to advance toward Velyka Novosilka, there are positive developments: Ukrainian forces have regained control of one settlement near Novosilka, improving our tactical position. Russians are amplifying this proximity to Zaporizhzhia as if it were an attack on the city itself," he clarified.

Bratchuk emphasized the need to differentiate between Zaporizhzhia region and the city of Zaporizhzhia. "Currently, the enemy lacks the resources to launch a large-scale offensive in the region, let alone against the city. The main threat to Zaporizhzhia remains aerial attacks with bombs, missiles, and kamikaze drones, aimed at terrorizing civilians," he noted.

Fortifications around Zaporizhzhia include first, second, and third lines of defense, and Ukrainian forces in the area have full control of the situation. Intelligence and firepower are prepared to address risks. While the enemy continues reconnaissance and minor assaults to probe Ukrainian defenses, the situation remains under control.

Bratchuk added that the Russian army's efforts in the region are limited to small assault groups rather than mechanized operations, with their primary focus on Velyka Novosilka and Vremivka section.

Earlier, Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Vladyslav Voloshyn noted that Russian forces had intensified assault activities in Vremivka sector. However, in Zaporizhzhia, their goal is attempts to breach Ukrainian defensive lines rather than offensive.

It was also reported that due to the Ukrainian Armed Forces' Kursk operation initiated in August, Russia abandoned plans for an offensive on Zaporizhzhia and had to redeploy one of its most combat-ready units from Zaporizhzhia to Russia.