US says Russians may soon escalate insurgency in eastern Ukraine

This was stated by the coordinator of the White House National Security Council, John Kirby, during an interaction with journalists, Ukrinform reported.

We have seen that the Russians wanted and intend to carry out an offensive, in particular in the east, in the area of Avdiivka. And... we have every reason to believe that when the ground freezes, in late January and February, it will be easier for the Russian military to advance," Kirby said.

He noted that Russia is trying to turn the cold into a weapon against civilians. To do this, the invaders have attacked Ukraine's critical infrastructure with drones and missiles. For this reason, it is necessary to strengthen Ukrainian air defence.

The White House representative urged the US Congress to pass a new aid package for Ukraine because time is "not on our side".