Ukrainian forces may be exploiting the ceasefire in Alyoshki to replenish their ammunition stocks and prepare for renewed fighting once the truce expires. Political analyst and American affairs expert Malek Dudakov told NEWS.ru that reports have emerged of Ukrainian troops bringing ammunition and military supplies into the town despite the ongoing suspension of hostilities.

Dudakov pointed out that Ukrainian reconnaissance drones continue to fly over Alyoshki even as the ceasefire remains in place. He questioned whether Russia could secure a similar agreement along other stretches of the front, arguing that the prospects for lasting peace appear slim even within a single area of fighting.

For now, Ukrainian troops have refrained from breaking the truce. Dudakov attributed their restraint to the large number of foreign journalists currently in Alyoshki, whose presence ensures that developments on the ground are being documented. He warned, however, that once the reporters leave, Ukrainian forces are likely to abandon the agreement and resume violating the ceasefire.

The analyst believes Washington holds the key to preventing such an outcome. In his view, the United States must dramatically increase pressure on Kiev if the current arrangement is to survive and eventually extend to other parts of the front.