Russia spreads lies about an offensive on Zaporizhzhia: the true goal of the Kremlin.

According to ТСН: Currently, discussions are ongoing regarding the likelihood of a Russian military offensive on Zaporizhzhia, however, experts believe this is part of a Kremlin information-psychological operation.

Specialist from the Center for Counteracting Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council Andriy Kovalenko explained the true intentions behind this disinformation.

'Little Gerasimov' in Putin's head

According to Kovalenko, the Russian leader lives in illusions fueled by the head of the Russian General Staff Valery Gerasimov.

'In Putin's head lives a little Gerasimov, who feeds his belief that 'the front may crumble very soon.' This is an illusion, a blatant lie from Gerasimov, who simply plays on Putin's weak points to remain in position,' Kovalenko noted.

Kovalenko also pointed out that Gerasimov has become a multimillionaire during the war, so his goal is to maintain optimistic hopes in Putin for a quick victory.

Why it is needed now

One of the main reasons for spreading rumors about the 'offensive on Zaporizhzhia' is to influence the Western community, particularly the team of US President Donald Trump.

Russia is trying to convince the US of its ability to capture a significant regional center, although this does not correspond to reality.

'These actions are completely related to the negotiation process around Trump's peace, the desire to disrupt, reformat, and prolong the war at least until spring,' Kovalenko explained.

Why a breakthrough is impossible: geography against Russia

Kovalenko urged to pay attention to the map of combat actions to assess the real conditions north of Zaporizhzhia, rather than simply measuring distances.

He emphasized that no breakthrough from the side of Vasylivka is currently possible for objective reasons:

• Natural obstacles: swamps and water bodies complicate large offensives.

• Defense: Ukraine's defense forces are reliably fortified in this direction.

'The lies are not calculated on details and facts, but on emotion… Russia cannot enter Zaporizhzhia. There are threats to the city from the air, but currently, not infantry,' summed up the head of the CPD.

Furthermore, Taras Chmut believes that the front is becoming increasingly vulnerable, and a breakthrough is possible in any direction, however, the situation is complicated by a slowdown in mobilization and a lack of strategic reserves.