Military Expert on 2026: Why Dnipro and Zaporizhzhia May Become the Main Target.

According to ТСН: Donetsk region remains the epicenter of hostilities, but the threat is gradually beginning to shift towards large industrial centers of Ukraine. Military expert Igor Romanenko warns that 2026 may determine the fate of Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro.

Donetsk: Which Cities are Next Under Attack

According to the expert, the occupation of Pokrovsk and Myrnograd is just a matter of time. Currently, the main task of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is to preserve personnel.

“We need to think about how to withdraw troops from there and maximize the preservation of our soldiers. We need to continue fighting, strengthen the defense line. First of all - it's Kostiantynivka and Druzhkivka, as well as even larger cities - Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, where the enemy has concentrated,”

Why the Steppes of Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk are a Trap

Particular concern is caused by the enemy's advance in the south. The capture of most of Huliaypole opens the way for the invaders into the Dnipropetrovsk region. The main problem lies in the landscape.

• Donetsk: has dense development and hills that facilitate defense.

• Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro: this is a 'steppe zone.' There is a lack of populated areas or natural obstacles, complicating the situation.

“The situation there is even worse: how to stop the enemy in the middle of the steppe?”

The expert emphasizes that without urgent construction of strong fortifications in the open field, it will be extremely difficult to hold back Russian equipment at the approaches to Dnipro.

These warnings underscore the importance of strategic defense under increased pressure. The situation in the region requires close attention and efforts to ensure the safety of cities that may be under threat. Planning defensive positions and erecting new fortifications become critically important for maintaining control over these territories.