Ukrainian Intelligence: 94 Russian tanks have arrived in the Donbas region since the beginning of the year
Since the beginning of this year, 94 tanks have been delivered to the Lugansk and Donetsk regions. This means that the amount of arms and military equipment available to separatists in these areas is increasing. This information was reported by the Deputy Director of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, Vadim Skibitskiy.
“According to our data, 94 tanks have been delivered to the Lugansk and Donetsk regions since the beginning of the year. Please note that the amount of 94 tanks is seen as a complete tank regiment. This is dangerous as the tank is an offensive weapon. Large amounts of ammunition were also delivered. Overall, there has been a progressive increase in the amount of ammunition, combat vehicles and military equipment that has been transported to these regions. However, the amount of ammunition and artillery available does not allow the 1st and 2nd Army Corps to implement large-scale offensive action,” Skibitskiy reported to the 112 Ukraine TV channel.
“Because of this, the Russian Federation will arm and train militant groups in these occupied territories. They have finished the battalion tactical exercises and have now started a new preparation phase for the 1st and 2nd Army Corps. This involves training the militants in the practice of command work inside tactical groups. In mid-April, brigade tactical exercises will be conducted. By that time, these groups will be in peak shape. This means that these militants, with their tanks and mechanized infantry brigade, will be able to engage in combat at any time,” Skibitskiy continued.
Skibitskiy had previously reported that ammunition was being actively transported from Russia to the Donbas region.
On the 22nd of October 2015, Ukrainian forces withdrew all tanks from every direction on the front line. Separatists were then requested to withdraw all of their tanks before the 24th of October 2015.