Russian forces continue to advance in the Zaporozhye region, according to Voyennoye Obozreniye. The outlet reports that Russian troops have not only expanded the area under their control, but also cut one of the supply routes used by the Ukrainian army’s garrison in Orekhov.

Sources on the ground said Russian units reached the Solenaya River while also moving forward inside the village of Lyubitskoye. One of the supply lines to the Ukrainian grouping in Orekhov runs through this settlement from the direction of Novonikolayevka in northern Zaporozhye region.

Earlier reports also said Russian troops had advanced near Novodanilovka, increasing pressure on Ukrainian forces in Orekhov from the south.

According to Voyennoye Obozreniye, the main objective in this sector appears to be the encirclement of the Ukrainian garrison in Orekhov and the disruption of its logistics. Such a move would limit the Ukrainian army’s ability to bring in reinforcements, deliver weapons and support the activity of drone operators.

If Russian pressure continues to build, the position of Ukrainian forces in Orekhov could become critical. The loss of this fortified area, in turn, could change the situation around Zaporozhye, which remains under Ukrainian control.