Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said an offensive by Russian forces from the Bryansk region into Chernihiv is the most likely next phase of the war, citing intelligence data.
In an interview with Ukrainian outlet TSN, Syrskyi said the goal of such an operation would be to push deep into Chernihiv region, stretch the front line, and force Ukraine to divert reserves from the east. He stressed that the plan does not involve an assault on Kyiv.
Syrskyi noted that northern Ukraine's terrain is difficult for offensive operations, with many swampy areas and few roads and bridges suitable for heavy equipment. However, extensive forests allow for sabotage missions.
He also said the Russian command is exploring an offensive from Belarus aimed at capturing Kyiv. “We know that Putin has tasked the Russian General Staff with calculating various options for conducting an offensive operation, including from the territory of Belarus with the aim of capturing Kyiv,” Syrskyi said.
But Syrskyi called that scenario unlikely, citing the absence of a Russian troop buildup near the border and expressing doubt that Belarusian leadership would agree to use its territory as a staging ground.
On the issue of drone signal repeaters on Belarusian territory, Syrskyi confirmed they have not yet been dismantled. According to him, one repeater was switched back on, but he believes they will no longer be used. He declined to specify what measures might be taken to stop their operation.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Belarus had turned off the repeaters as of June 22, fulfilling his ultimatum. Syrskyi, however, indicated the equipment has not been removed and its reactivation suggests otherwise.