Ukraine prepares for Russian offensive near Orikhiv in Zaporizhzhia Oblast in coming days

Russian forces are massing for a breakthrough in the direction of Orikhiv and Mala Tokmachka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast in the coming days, according to Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Vladyslav Voloshyn, who spoke on Oct. 5.

This serves as another warning of a potential Russian push in southern Zaporizhzhia Oblast, as Moscow's troops continue advancing in eastern Ukraine. Voloshyn expects Russia to deploy small assault groups supported by armored vehicles.

Orikhiv, a Ukrainian-held town about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southeast of Zaporizhzhia, and roughly 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of the front line, was the focal point of Ukraine's southern counteroffensive in 2023. While the counteroffensive led to the liberation of Robotyne, it did not result in a major breakthrough.

Earlier this year, Russia intensified its attacks in the south, claiming to have recaptured Robotyne—claims that Ukraine has repeatedly denied.

On Sept. 28, Voloshyn warned that Russia is "amassing personnel" in Zaporizhzhia Oblast and preparing for a new maneuver near the occupied village of Pryiutne. However, he noted that a full-scale offensive would require larger numbers. "If they achieve a breakthrough, Russia will be able to target logistical routes connecting Zaporizhzhia to eastern Ukraine," he said, adding, "Russia will try to succeed at any cost to cut off our logistics."

Ukrainian intelligence indicates that Russian forces are gathering both personnel and logistical support in the area, and a new offensive operation is likely to begin in the coming days.

Russians strike Kramatorsk with missile, damaging fire department

On the morning of October 6, Russian forces fired a Kh-22 anti-ship missile at Kramatorsk, damaging a local fire and rescue unit. In addition to the building itself, nearby industrial facilities were impacted. The explosion caused damage to windows and the garage door of the facility. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

Russians attack warehouses and trucks in Odesa

On the night of October 5-6, Russian forces targeted the city of Odesa with Shahed loitering munitions, resulting in fires. The strikes damaged warehouses and lorries, leading to significant fires. One man was severely injured and taken to the hospital, and around fifty firefighters were involved in extinguishing the flames.

Ukraine may be given more concrete steps to join NATO at upcoming Ramstein-format meeting

The upcoming meeting of Kyiv's allies in the Ramstein format (Ukraine Defence Contact Group) is expected to introduce new measures to support Ukraine, particularly concerning its integration with NATO.

A Western diplomat indicated that NATO countries are exploring options for more concrete support for Ukraine on its path toward future membership. While these proposals may not fully address Kyiv's immediate needs, they would still send an important signal of commitment.

One Western diplomat also noted that although President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was unsuccessful in lifting missile restrictions, Ukraine may receive other forms of assistance during the upcoming meeting in Germany.

Ukrainian officials, however, are concerned that the upcoming US presidential election could jeopardize the continuation of military aid. Zelenskyy and his team are working to persuade President Joe Biden to support Ukraine's Victory Plan, which could become a notable part of his political legacy.

The Washington Post reported that the White House is cautious about making decisions that could impact the Democratic election campaign.