Lauge Risom Koch 
Ukraine says Russia is rotating offensive units in the south and preparing new operations, with military activity expected to increase during the summer months.
Russian forces are rotating key assault units in southern Ukraine, a move Ukrainian officials believe could signal increased offensive activity during the summer months.
The redeployment is reportedly focused on the Huliaipole sector, where Moscow is preparing new operations against Ukrainian defensive positions.
Troop rotation
According to Ukrinform, Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Vladyslav Voloshyn said Russia is currently carrying out a rapid rotation of its offensive grouping in the Huliaipole direction.
The formation reportedly belongs to Russia’s 5th Army and includes the 57th Separate Motor Rifle Brigade, the 60th Separate Motor Rifle Brigade and the 55th Naval Infantry Division.
Voloshyn said the grouping is expected to operate in the area throughout June.
New objectives
According to Ukrinform, Russian commanders have assigned the incoming units new operational tasks.
“They have been given new tasks, and these objectives are set deep within the defensive positions of Ukraine’s Defense Forces,” Voloshyn said.
He added that Russian forces are seeking to capture positions located further behind Ukraine’s frontline defenses.
Summer escalation
Voloshyn warned that Russian military activity is likely to intensify during the summer.
“All of this indicates that enemy activity will continue in the summer,” he said.
“And judging by the deployment of new units and groupings, this activity is likely to increase.”
According to Ukrinform, Ukrainian forces are monitoring the redeployment closely as Moscow adjusts its forces in the south.
Missed deadline
The reported rotation follows earlier setbacks for Russian forces in the region.
According to Ukrinform, Russian troops failed to meet a reported end-of-May objective to capture the settlements of Ternuvate and Kosivtseve.
Despite those difficulties, Ukrainian officials believe Russia remains committed to maintaining offensive pressure along the southern front.
The latest troop movements suggest preparations for a renewed push in the coming weeks.
Sources: Ukrinform
