Russian officers are evacuating their families from the southern town of Tokmak as Ukrainian forces make advances.
In response, Vladimir Putin’s troops are rapidly building bunkers and concrete trenches near the frontline in Zaporizhzhia, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
The fortifications are aimed at protecting Russian soldiers and command centres from heavy Ukrainian artillery and drone attacks, reflecting Russia’s concerns about a possible Ukrainian breakthrough in the ongoing conflict.
The MoD said: “The bunkers will add additional protection for Russian soldiers and command and control elements from heavy Ukrainian artillery and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle attacks.”
Tokmak, a small but strategically important town, serves as a vital road and rail hub for Russia’s military operations and is a key route that Kyiv could use to isolate Crimea from other occupied areas.
FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES…
