Russia has “highly likely” begun a “coordinated offensive” across the east of Ukraine, the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said in its latest intelligence update.
This is just as Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Beijing to meet with Chinese President, Xi Jinping, on a trip aimed at showcasing the trust and “no-limits” partnership between the two countries.
President Putin and his entourage flew into Beijing Capital International Airport this morning and were greeted by the Chinese commerce minister Wang Wentao.
It is the second known trip abroad since the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for President Putin.
He stands accused of illegally deporting children from Ukraine.
Reunited with his “dear friend” President Xi, the Russian leader will attend the opening reception of the third Belt and Road forum, an international cooperation forum championed by the Chinese leader.
It is his first trip to Beijing since February 2022, where he visited for the Winter Olympics.
Meanwhile, UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said in its latest intelligence update that Russian forces are conducting a “combined arms offensive” in the eastern town of Avdiivka – which has seen intense fighting in recent months.
“Russia’s attack is likely being carried out with multiple armoured battalions, which are attempting to envelop the town,” the update states.
The ministry notes this is “likely to be the most significant offensive operation undertaken by Russia since at least January 2023”.
The report adds that “successfully clearing Avdiivka looks increasingly unlikely in the short term”.