The United States expects Russian forces to try to encircle Kiev, Ukraine, in the coming days. According to a US defense official, the offensive could become more aggressive out of frustration with the slow advance on the Ukrainian capital. Follow the special coverage on CNN.
Air raid sirens sounded in the largely empty streets of Kiev on Monday, warning of another possible Russian missile strike. The city prepares for worse battles as Russian forces approach.
“We estimate that they will want to continue advancing and try to encircle the city in the coming days,” the official said, adding that Russian troops were about 25 kilometers from central Kiev.
US officials say they believe strong Ukrainian resistance has slowed Russian troops’ progress. In addition, planning failures left some Russian units without fuel or other supplies.
“One of the things that could result is a reassessment of their tactics and the potential to be more aggressive and open, both in the size and scale of their attack on Kiev,” the official told reporters.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity and provided no evidence, said the United States has yet to see that happen but is concerned about the situation.
Russian forces, now in the fifth day of an invasion of the neighboring country, have fired some 380 missiles at Ukrainian targets, the official said, and President Vladimir Putin has committed nearly 75% of his pre-arranged combat power in Ukraine.
Reporting by Phil Stewart and Ali Idrees; Editing by Howard Goller
Source: CNN Brasil
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