The Russian army may launch new counteroffensive operations in late May or early June. Russia's strikes over the past three weeks are part of preparations for this offensive. This was stated by the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, in an interview with Politico on Thursday evening, UNN reported.
According to Yermak, the strikes Ukraine has suffered over the past three weeks are part of a campaign to soften it up for a major Russian offensive.
According to the newspaper, Yermak considers the northeastern city of Kharkiv to be the most likely target for the main direction of the offensive.
"We know that Putin is preparing a new wave of mobilization, and we believe that new Russian counter-offensive operations may begin in late May or early June. Of course, we must be prepared for this," Yermak said.
"We still desperately need additional air defense systems, because without them we will not be able to defend our cities," he added.
Yermak said that more Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems are needed to protect the front line, where Russians are causing huge damage using guided bombs.