Ukraine is finalizing second and third defense lines in Zaporizhzhia Oblast to create “fortress”
Fortifications are also being created around cities, the governor said.
The Zaporizhzhia Oblast is significantly expanding its defensive infrastructure with the construction of second and third lines of defense while also fortifying areas around cities, according to Ivan Fedorov, head of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration, who spoke during a national TV air on 28 October.
Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in 2023, Ukraine has been constructing more fortifications amid a lack of weapons to destroy attacking Russian troops earlier before the frontline and relying on strategic defense.
Fedorov revealed that military forces completed the first defensive line in mid-summer and are now working jointly with the Oblast administration to establish additional layers of protection. The second line of defense is reportedly nearly complete, with the third line expected to be finished within the coming weeks.
“Our goal is to transform the Zaporizhzhia Oblast into a fortress,” Fedorov stated, adding that defensive structures are being continuously modernized with particular attention to protection against FPV (First Person View) drones, which have become increasingly prevalent in modern warfare.
The announcement comes as Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, recently visited units participating in defensive operations in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast. During his visit, Syrskyi emphasized that the primary objective is to strengthen military defense in the most challenging frontline areas and ensure maximum resilience of the defense line.
The reinforcement of defensive positions comes amid ongoing Russian attacks in the region. The new fortifications surrounding urban areas are proceeding according to the schedule set by the General Staff, Fedorov assured.
These defensive improvements represent a strategic shift toward long-term resilience in a region that has faced significant military pressure.
Related:
- Poland ready to transfer remaining MiG-29s to Ukraine if allies guarantee the security of airspace – Duda
- “We’ll help you with anything.” Russia’s gamble with North Korea sends message to China, warns former US diplomat
- Norway pledges € 500 million in aid to Ukraine in new support package
You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this.
We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society.
A little bit goes a long way: for as little as the cost of one cup of coffee a month, you can help build bridges between Ukraine and the rest of the world, plus become a co-creator and vote for topics we should cover next. Become a patron or see other ways to support.
