Russia Intensifies Strategy with Precision Strikes Against Ukraine
8:34 PM EDT, April 15, 2024
Recent reports reveal a disturbing shift in strategy on the part of Russian forces in their ongoing conflict with Ukraine. They have refined their mass attack tactics to be more precise and focused, resulting in immediate adverse effects.
Western media are increasingly highlighting Ukraine's dire situation, exacerbated by the diminished support from the United States and depleting ammunition stocks.
The independent Russian news outlet Meduza, referencing information from CNN, reports on this unsettling development. "Their change in tactics has unfortunately put us at a disadvantage," Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Energy, Svitlana Hrytsuk, told Meduza.
She further noted that the relentless mass attacks have undone Ukraine's year-long efforts of rebuilding and repair in just a few days.
Revised Tactics for Increased Impact
CNN reports that Russia has implemented this new tactic since March 22, coinciding with one of the largest assaults witnessed. In a coordinated attack, up to 10 regions across the country were simultaneously shelled, leaving over a million households without electricity. Another devastating event was the obliteration of the Trypilska Thermal Power Plant in the Kyiv region a few days ago.
"The strategy involves massive missile strikes on specific targets, utilizing a multitude of missiles and drones aimed at a narrow set of objectives," explains Oleksandr Kharchenko, director of the Energy Industry Research Center in Kyiv.
The strategy's timing suggests a calculated decision by Putin, aiming to align the new offensive with the onset of spring. According to CNN, this delay allowed Russia to amass additional weaponry and crucial intelligence. Moreover, this timeframe was chosen in anticipation of Ukraine's power plants being less guarded by air defense systems.
According to statements from a Ukrainian energy company, Russia has shifted focus from attacking Ukraine's electrical transmission systems. Since late March, the onslaught has targeted energy infrastructure more specifically.