ISW: Putin is trying to pave the way for the creation of new Russian forces in the fall and winter

ISW (Institute for the Study of War) notes that judging by the footage published in the media, Russian forces continue to transfer military convoys to the south of Ukraine through the Kerch bridge. ISW writes about it.

Putin's repeated assertion of an "anti-Russian" entity that must be crushed militarily to defend Russia confirms his maximalist intentions towards Ukraine and is likely intended to create an informational environment to call for further Russian efforts and force building this fall and winter. , the Institute said in a statement.

However, it is unlikely that the Russians will make the necessary progress to capture the area before September 15. The Kremlin is likely looking to capitalize on the importance of capturing Donbas' territories to boost morale.

Earlier, Putin reiterated the interpretation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a defensive operation. During a meeting with schoolchildren in Kaliningrad on September 1, he stated that the "special operation" was to eliminate the "anti-Russian enclave" that is being formed in Ukraine and poses a threat to the Russian Federation.