They absolutely don't include the rebels. These are official figures from Russian MoD. They might include the Chechen National Guard units (though they might not, it's MoD). They probably don't include the volunteers.
Except Russia had many of these same problems in Georgia in 2008 with units out running supply lines after relatively short movements, Maybe they will learn from it but IMO it will take either a massivechange in the thinking of existing p;ersonnel or a near purge of those in government and military command to make it so seeing as bugger all was done in 14 years from their last lesson.
1. Remember, we previously spoke of Plan A’s failure and the move to Plan B. It seems the Russians are on Plan C, now. Please don’t shoot the messenger, as Plan C is explained.
Privates, Cpls, Sgts, Lts, Capts & even Majs are expendable and can be relatively easily replaced. However flag rank officers can't because of their knowledge, experience, and capabilities are greater and the more stars on their shoulder the harder they are to replace.Another day and another dead General. That makes seven. Reports of an officer being killed by his own men as well.
Seven Russian Generals Killed In Ukraine Named: Western Official
Western officials on Friday named seven Russian generals they said had so far been killed, and another who had been sacked, during the war in Ukraine.www.barrons.com
Russian seems in their communique tell they are consistent with their aim. Thus the first stage is always securing Donbass and Crimea security
Yep. Even fewer Russian Generals with combat experience. About now there are probably some senior military desk jockeys getting very nervous about their next posting.
Although from most of the video material I saw it seems that the majority of fighting in Mariopol is done by chechen and rebel forces.
I think georgia overall was perceived as a success and in consequence there was no real demand for scrutiny and critique from the political establishment.
Yes, it was clear their initial objectives were to take Kiev and install a new regime + get the strategic corridor to Crimea and the economically important remaining parts of Donbass for the separatist states.Russian seems in their communique tell they are consistent with their aim. Thus the first stage is always securing Donbass and Crimea security
I put interfax this one, as it put Russian General Staff Rudskoi announcement. He put the first stage always been to secure Donbass, and the decision to widen theater is to in able Ukrainian ability for constant replenish forces in Donbas.
By his announcement, seems Russia will continue to force out Ukraine forces in Luhansk (almost complete), Donetsk (half way), and will going to attack Ukraine logistical line by missiles and air attack.
For me, seems Russia going to keep their gain not only in Donbas but also in Kherson and Zaporizhye Oblasts for Crimea security.
All other positions will be continue being hold for continue 'demilitarisation' by attacking and destroying Ukraine forces outside the major cities. However indication from Russian they will not move in to large cities like they do in Mariupol. Mariupol is different story seems, they need to hold it for Donbas security.
I say basically the other reason for Mariupol as they want to claim all shores of Azov sea. Afterall Russia think Azov sea is like their 'inland' sea. So I got a feeling those four Oblasts will be hold by them no matter what.
Seems after securing those four Oblasts, the rest of operation not to aim gaining more territory, but more to destroy what's left of Ukraine Army.
Add:
There's report that in Kherson, they already distributing Ruble for use on daily transaction. This's the thing that's being done in Donbas and Crimea. More sign Kherson Oblast and the adjacent Zaporizhye Oblast will be kept for Crimea security, land bridge to Donbas, and to kept all Azov sea shores.
Something they are not doing in other Ukrainian territory under their control so far.
This counter offensive from Ukraine, is there any proof they manage to regain much ground ?
What do you mean by holding them?
www.bbc.com
Probably older combat experienced senior NCOs might be more valuable than the multi star generals that developed the plans for this C-F invasion based on results so far.
