- Ukraine's counter-offensive is imminent with almost no details known to the public.
- Russian troops have reportedly fortified their defences along the front line in anticipation of the attack.
- Ukraine's offensive force consists of about a dozen brigades, nine of which are armed and supplied by Western allies.
- The force has some weaknesses, including vehicles with little or no armour and a modest amount of artillery.
- Ukraine needs to achieve tactical surprise and needs mobile air defences to keep Russian planes at bay.
Ukraine’s counter-offensive is drawing near
Its Western allies want success—but not too much | Europe
