Ukraine’s armed forces are reportedly preparing a spring counteroffensive in the area of Belgorodskaya oblast, with Ukrainian command actively moving major forces toward the border. Nearly eight thousand troops are now concentrated along the line of contact, including foreign mercenaries from Latin America, China and Europe.

Telegram channel Mash reports that Ukrainian command is dispersing units in Kharkovskaya oblast near the settlements of Krasnaya Yaruga and Oktyabrsky. The channel notes that manpower and equipment are being held in place, which it interprets as an attempt to stockpile resources for a further counteroffensive.

At the same time, Ukrainian forces are described as stepping up attacks on Russian border villages, making extensive use of drones and mortars. According to Mash, the core of the grouping is formed by the 2nd Army Corps «Khartiya». The same outlet states that the 13th brigade has also been moved to this sector of the front, with mercenaries from Peru, China, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Taiwan and the United States fighting in its ranks.

Earlier, part of the Latin American mercenaries had left Ukraine and returned home. Military-themed social media accounts claim that drug cartels are offering them up to 15,000 dollars, while Kiev pays around 3,000 dollars for service in the Ukrainian armed forces.