UK says Russia's operational plans in southern Donbas disrupted by Ukraine's resistance

Russia’s aggression in Ukraine continues on 72nd day and port city of Mariupol, which comes in Donbas region, is one of hardest hit cities in Ukraine. Russia’s goal is to 'liberate' Donbas and capture Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol but, British intelligence believes that Russia is suffering losses as a result of Azovstal defenders' continued resistance, thwarting ir goals in sourn Donbas. However, Russian troops in Mariupol continue to w war. report suggests that Russia's desperate efforts to capture Azovstal and complete capture of Mariupol are likely due to upcoming Victory Day celebrations on May 9 and Putin's desire to achieve symbolic success in Ukraine.

UK Defence Intelligence stated, "Russian forces in Mariupol have continued ir ground assault on Azovstal steel plant for second day, despite Russian statements claiming y would seek only to seal it off. renewed effort of Russia to secure Azovstal and complete capture of Mariupol is likely linked to upcoming 9 May Victory Day commemorations and Putin’s desire to have a symbolic success in Ukraine."

UK Intelligence furr stated that Russia has paid a high price for this effort in terms of soldiers, equipment and ammunition. It also said that as resistance in Azovstal persists, Russian losses in sourn Donbas will continue to mount, thwarting ir operational intentions in region.

UK's assistance to Ukraine

UK has supported Ukraine ever since war started in late February by supplying military and humanitarian assistance to former Soviet state and imposing harsh sanctions against Russian Federation. On May 5, UK anunced that it will send ar pack of assistance to Ukraine. UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss stated that assistance is to help reach most vulnerable people affected by violence in Ukraine, according to UK government's official website.

UK will pay £45 million to UN ncies and charities operating on ground to provide care, support and protection to civilians in Ukraine and its borders. In Ukraine, about 16 million people are said to be in need of humanitarian aid. Since conflict began, over 5 million people have entered or European countries, making it fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.

Im: AP