Zaporizhzhya may be a new target: the Russians launched an offensive in the Novoselka area

The entry of North Korea, one of the most militarised and unstable countries in the world, poses serious risks for Ukraine, which is feeling short of resources and strength after gruelling months of war against a more powerful enemy. According to British military attaché John Foreman, Russia had begun to strengthen military ties with North Korea even before the invasion, but the current situation demonstrates Russia's desperation and a significant decline in its status as a military power.

However, as The Economist notes, these displays of weakness have not yet resulted in dramatic changes for Ukraine on the frontlines. Russian forces continue their offensive in several directions, including the important logistical hub of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine and the southern lines around Ugledar. It is also reported that Russia may be planning an offensive on Zaporozhye, a key industrial centre close to a Russian-occupied nuclear power plant.

Ex-Azov commander and deputy commander of the Third Assault Brigade Maxim Zhorin responded to these threats by calling for preparations to begin defence preparations for the Dnipropetrovsk region. He noted that defence lines should be organised well in advance, rather than hastily erected as the front line approaches new settlements.

Russian forces continue to improve the use of guided aerial bombs, increasing their range and accuracy. According to Vladyslav Voloshyn, a spokesman for the Defence Forces of Southern Ukraine, the upgraded UABs ensure compliance at distances of more than 30 kilometres from the front line, increasing the damage to cities such as Zaporizhzhya, Kharkiv, Kramatorsk and Orekhov. These cities are regularly hit, with Orekhiv, located less than 10 kilometres from the front line, being particularly targeted by shelling and airstrikes.