Russian MoD Announces Redeployment of Forces from Kharkov to Donbass, Triggering Criticism in Russia (Alexander Mercouris)

Western media says that the Russian side has retreated in disarray whereas the Russians say they retreated in good order. There is a big question about what is being aired online when it comes to Western claims vs the Russian statements.

According to the Russians the Ukraine side suffered very heavy losses. As time goes on we should get a better sense of what has happened.

According to this account the redeployment operation was done because of the disadvantageous positioning of the Russian forces in the area. By drawing out the Ukraine Army they are better targeted and the Russians have a better defense line (along a river). Will we now see a replay of the Kherson fiasco with the Ukrainian side being massacred as they attempt river crossings?

Nevertheless, a number of Russian allied units have been caught out, and the civilians in the area have been left high and dry. It does not play well in terms of propaganda, including for those in Russia. The withdrawal is a shocking development and people are not happy (at least in Russia and in this Eastern region). 

UPDATE:

Russia Attacks Ukraine Energy Infrastructure Inflicts Heavy Losses; Kiev Seeks to Maintain Offensive


[Posted at the SpookyWeather2 blog, September 13, 2022.]