Russia started offensive earlier than it had been planned, – General Syrskyi

Source: commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces General Syrskyi

The Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said that the Russians launched an offensive ahead of the schedule when they noticed the movement of the Ukrainian troops.

The commander-in-chief reported that due to the difficult situation in the east of Ukraine, he has been working for several days in units that are conducting combat operations in Kharkiv region.

According to him, Russia expanded the zone of active hostilities, trying to force the Armed Forces of Ukraine to use an additional number of brigades from the reserve.

‘The enemy failed to break through our defenses. However, we understand that there will be tough battles ahead and the enemy is preparing for it,’ General Syrskyi stated.

He also noted that under such circumstances, the Armed Forces of Ukraine should prevent the further advance of enemy troops by steadfastly holding defense positions.