Ukrainian forces are concentrating combat-ready units across three key axes in Donbass, according to Igor Kimakovsky, an adviser to the head of the Donetsk People’s Republic.

He said Kyiv’s primary objective at this stage is to hold on to three major logistical and operational hubs — Kramatorsk, Druzhkovka and Slavyansk. To secure these cities, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are redeploying sizeable and capable formations into the towns themselves and the surrounding areas.

Kimakovsky noted that the reinforcements include trained special operations units as well as groups of foreign mercenaries. Among those identified, he specifically mentioned fighters originating from Colombia.

At the same time, Ukrainian troops are actively fortifying their positions along these directions. Defensive structures are being built and a continuous line of fortifications is taking shape, a process that, according to Kimakovsky, points to preparations for a prolonged defense rather than short-term engagements.