"Russian Troops Conduct Small-Scale Redeployment at Ukraine Border"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Scenes of Russian troops deployed near the Ukraine border relocating their garrisons and being divided into smaller units, changing their formations, have recently been observed.

According to major foreign media on the 20th (local time), the US commercial satellite company Maxar analyzed satellite images taken that day and confirmed numerous new armored vehicles and units redeployed from their previous garrisons to forests and fields.

About 14 to 30 km from the Ukraine border, traces of armored vehicles passing through after snowfall were visible, with surrounding areas including forests, roads, and buildings. Some units were positioned closely along tree-lined roads.

Comparing photos taken on the 13th and 20th, Maxar analyzed that troop movements were observed at three locations in southwestern Russia. Maxar explained, "Most combat units and support equipment stationed at the Soloti garrison have departed," adding, "Large vehicle tire tracks and some armored equipment transport were observed."

It continued, "Some equipment was also deployed near the east of Baluyki, about 15 km from the Ukraine border," and "Numerous new field deployments were observed in the northwest of Belgorod. Many of these are located in or near forests."

Other company-sized units were also spotted in farms and industrial areas. Maxar stated, "This shows changes in previously observed troop deployments," adding, "This is recent and indicates Russia's strengthening of its readiness."

The New York Times (NYT) reported, "It can be seen that the Russian troops, which were previously stationed in large numbers, have been deployed in smaller units," and "The Russian forces appear to be moving closer to the Ukraine border, with such activities being prominent in the Belgorod area, which is considered a major attack route."

US officials have estimated that including pro-Russian Ukrainian rebels, the number of Russian troops deployed around the Ukraine border could reach up to 190,000.

The NYT also reported, "Among the more than 150,000 Russian troops near the Ukraine border, US intelligence agencies assess that 40 to 50% have combat formations."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.