Britain says Russia strengthening defences in Crimea

Russia has further expanded its defence installations in the occupied territories in Ukraine, according to information from British intelligence services.

It said significant efforts have been made, especially in the vicinity of the Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014 in violation of international law.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) in London announced this on Wednesday.

“This includes an extensive zone of defences of 9 kilometres in length, 3.5 kilometres north of the town Armyansk.

“Another defense on the narrow bridge of land connecting Crimea to the Kherson region,’’ the MoD stressed.

According to London, the sophisticated defensive positions underline Russia’s assessment that Ukrainian forces are capable of attacking Crimea directly.

“Russia will continue to see to the maintaining control of the peninsula as a top political priority,’’ the MoD said.

Fierce fighting continued on several frontline sections in southern Ukraine, it added.

Since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine almost 16 months ago, the British MoD has published daily updates on the course of the war.

Moscow has accused London of disinformation.

(NAN)