Zelensky Says Battle Of Donbas Has Begun

The battle of Donbas has begun, Ukraine President Zelensky said in a video address, as his military commanders pointed to intensified Russian military activity in the region.

• Zelensky noted that a large part of Russia's military is now focusing on the offensive in the Donbas. He said that Russian forces are acting more cautiously after suffering heavy losses in the initial phase of their invasion.
• The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said that the Russian military is rolling out helipads in the Belogrod region and forming additional units in Rostov and Crimea, hoping to finish preparations by April 24.
• Ukraine's military commanders believe that Russia's main aim is establishing full control over Luhansk and Donetsk regions, with signs of intensified assault operations already recorded.
• Earlier on Monday, Russia launched a missile attack on several warehouses and a car service station in the western city of Lviv, located just 60km from the border of NATO member Poland.
• Meanwhile, Ukraine Prime Minister Shmyhal said that the defenders of the contested seaport city of Mariupol will not surrender as the Pentagon assessed that it binds a considerable number of Russian troops that could otherwise be deployed to other parts of the Donbas.