Key Takeaways:
* The Russians are accused of instigating panic among Ukrainians.
* Embassies of several countries have ceased operations possibly due to Russian strike alerts.
* Andriy Kovalenko identifies a pattern in Russian military activity during the cold season.
* The Russian strategy reportedly involves depleting Ukrainian air defenses using various weapons.
* Awareness and preparedness among Ukrainians is key according to Kovalenko.
* Establishing safe havens and adhering to official alerts is crucial.
Stoking Panic Amid Diplomatic Shutdowns
Reports suggest that Russians are seeking to create chaos and fear among Ukrainians amid announced shutdowns of several foreign embassies. This comes in the wake of the embassies of Spain, Italy, and Greece in Ukraine closing to visitors. This development resulted from a warning issued by the United States about a potential large-scale missile attack on Ukraine.
Diving into Tactic Details
Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council, revealed an outline of what he believes are Russia’s combat strategies. According to Kovalenko, Russia tends to gear up for strikes during the cold season. This includes stocking up on missiles, preparing their aviation and navy, and even deploying drones. Their intention, Kovalenko suggested, is to exhaust Ukrainian air defense systems.
Further analysis from Kovalenko highlighted Russia’s bet on the use of cruise and ballistic missiles in their attacks while adopting drone technology to wear down Ukrainian defense capabilities. Russians reportedly possess various types of missiles, a fact that is common knowledge.
Media Manipulation
Kovalenko also pointed to another dimension of Russia’s approach – a manipulation of the information sphere. “Now they are trying to sow panicky moods against the background of the shutdown of embassies,” Kovalenko stated, referring to Russia’s alleged meddling in the psyche of Ukrainians to incite fear and chaos.
Public Awareness and Preparedness
Despite the threats, Kovalenko expressed confidence in the Ukrainian people’s understanding of the situation. He noted that after three years of large-scale invasion and knowing about Russia’s tactics, the Ukrainians have become aware of the need to plan and prepare in case of an alert. This could include identifying safe places, calculating routes, and times to reach these safety zones.
Adherence to official alerts such as those from the Air Force was particularly emphasized by Kovalenko. His reassurance contained a defiant note; “Regarding panic that they are trying to sow – I will clarify once again that Russia has been preparing for strikes and this is part of the war. Russia’s plans are known to our Defense Forces. There is and will be an antidote,” Kovalenko stated.
Insights Reveal Russia’s War Tactics
Though concerning, Kovalenko’s insights into Russia’s tactics help shine a light on how conflicts in the region might unfold. With clear strategic threats posed by Russia, it seems essential that Ukrainians remain on alert and continue to prepare and educate themselves about how to stay safe in a time of crisis. The times are challenging, and preparedness and calm are key to facing any potential adversity.