"They are pushing forward by Easter, but they won’t make it," Budanov said of the occupiers' plans.
The Russian occupation army hastens its preparations for an attack on the East, in order to get at least some tactical improvements before Easter.
The head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Defence Ministry, Kirylo Budanov, spoke about this on Sunday evening , April 17 , during a telethon.
"The Russians are in a hurry, they have limited time. They want to get some tactical advantage. They are pushing forward by Easter, but they won’t make it," said Budanov.
He assumed "their insignificant tactical gains, but only for the time being".
"Some settlements are handed out two or three times a day. From hands to hands", - said the head of Ukrainian Intelligence.
According to Budanov, the Russian troops have concentrated their forces in certain segments of the "breakthrough".
"Now it is Izum, the point where they are trying to attack," Budanov said.
Responding to a question about Mariupol, Budanov said he was confident that "our defenders will not give up and will defend until the end. Mariupol will be de-blocked and liberated".