At this stage, the conflict escalates
further. Russia realizes that
providing material, logistical, and fire
support to pro-Russian groups is
insufficient to stabilize the situation
in Donbas. The Russian army rapidly
assembles various elements from
across the country to form several
combat-ready battle groups. These
groups enter Donbas at multiple
points to stabilize the front line
while simultaneously dealing a defeat
to Ukrainian forces. If successful,
these forces could threaten
additional Ukrainian regions, forcing
Kyiv into negotiations on Russia's
terms. Russia gathers its forces
for an invasion and, by late summer
2014, deploys them at key points
where the Ukrainian army is weak.
A dramatic battle erupts along the
border, with some Ukrainian combat
groups becoming encircled. Some
surrender to Russian forces and
cross the border, while others fight
their way out. The Ukrainian assault
force attacking the city of Ilovaisk is
also encircled, marking the largest
Ukrainian defeat of this phase
of the war. In southern Donetsk
Oblast, fresh Russian forces launch
an attack from Russian territory
Stage V. Russia Enters Donbas.
Formation of a Regular Army
in Donbas.
www.fragoutmag.com
