War in Donbas 2021: the number of troops, Zelenskyy's address, US support. Photo: pixabay
In Crimea, the number of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine turned out to be more than military experts expected. In particular, satellites recorded several Su-30 fighters at an airbase on the territory of the occupied peninsula that were not there in March.
This is evidenced by the satellite images that were taken between March 27 and April 16, The Wall Street Journal reports.
The images were taken by the company Maxar Technologies, and its director Dan Jablonsky decided to publish them in order to dispel doubts about what is happening in the region.
Besides Crimea, the images also show the camp near Voronezh, where Russia has been pulling in troops since the end of March. In particular, helicopters, drones, motorized rifle and armored units, and military hospitals can be seen there.
At the same time, American officials believe that such a redeployment of aviation is needed to increase political influence on Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the Russian authorities and the population. He recalled that the consequence of the military invasion by Russia would result in casualties on both sides.
In addition, Zelensky noted that international partners are on the side of Ukraine and recognize the Russian Federation as an aggressor. They are also ready to impose tougher sanctions against Russia.
However, he called on the West to respond to the situation not only with concern, but also with real help.
At the same time, the US Senate on Foreign Relations plans to pass a bill on April 21 to increase annual military aid, including the provision of lethal weapons.
The situation on the contact line remains tense. However, the Ukrainian military has been ordered not to respond to the provocations of the Russian mercenaries in the Donbas.
Context. Russia has recently restricted flights over parts of Crimea and the Black Sea. In particular, the area was declared temporarily dangerous for flights. This restriction will last from April 20 to April 24.