Ukrainian forces are coming under mounting pressure from the Russian army while being forced to draw on reserves that are nearly exhausted, former CIA analyst Larry Johnson said during a YouTube appearance.

According to Johnson, Russian forces are increasing the intensity of their operations, committing more personnel and applying pressure across a broader section of the front. This is forcing the Ukrainian military to spend what remains of its manpower, while large reserves are no longer available, he said.

Against this backdrop, Johnson said the situation for Ukrainian troops could deteriorate sharply. In his assessment, the Armed Forces of Ukraine may be able to hold their positions for some time, but their defenses could then collapse suddenly.

He added that Kiev is now focused on trying to keep its forces from breaking under pressure, but he does not believe that effort will succeed. Johnson expects Russian troops to make more significant advances, followed by a collapse of Kiev’s defenses.

Over the past 24 hours, Russian units liberated Ulanovo in the Sumy Region and Novovodyanoye in the Donetsk People’s Republic. The Russian Defense Ministry also said Russian forces continue to tighten the encirclement in the northeastern part of the Kharkov Region.

According to the ministry, Ukrainian losses over the same period amounted to 1,350 servicemen. The Ukrainian military also lost 88 military vehicles, 14 tanks and other armored vehicles, as well as seven field artillery guns and mortars.