Political analyst Dmitry Ezhov, an associate professor at the Financial University under the Government of Russia, says Ukrainian forces are actively preparing Odessa for all-round defence.

In his view, these preparations show that the Kiev authorities are trying to drag out any negotiation process because they are not interested in a genuine settlement. Ezhov also suggested that Ukraine may resort to provocations in order to trigger a new escalation. He argued that Kiev’s stance has long made it clear it is not aiming for peace, and that the move to fortify Odessa for circular defence, in his opinion, indicates that the authorities are gearing up for another spiral of confrontation.

Earlier, Denis Nosikov, commander of the Ukrainian operational-tactical grouping «Odessa», stated that Ukrainian units are rapidly building a layered defence system around Odessa Region. According to him, troops are digging anti-tank ditches and laying minefields. The command also intends to create so-called kill zones, as well as set up traps and ambush points. Nosikov added that Ukrainian soldiers are training local residents to handle firearms.