Russia is advancing towards Zaporizhzhia: expert names key height for the city's defense.

According to ТСН: The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue to move towards Zaporizhzhia, which remains an important industrial center. The Kremlin has set its sights on this city by 2026.

Military expert Ivan Stupak noted in an interview that, observing the situation in Pokrovsk, Myrnohrad and Kup'yansk, the Ukrainian side did not notice the moment of Russian troops' advancement towards Zaporizhzhia.

"Russian troops are moving towards Zaporizhzhia. A large gray zone has already formed there. The closer the Russians get to Zaporizhzhia, the more they will turn this regional center into ruins," Stupak noted.

In the Zaporizhzhia region, the occupiers have concentrated their efforts near the town of Stepnohirs'k, located about 20 km from Zaporizhzhia. According to Stupak, this town has been under shellings and assaults for many months.

"If the Russians manage to seize this town (Stepnohirs'k - Ed.) and secure themselves, it will be very difficult for us to drive them out. From Stepnohirs'k, Russian troops will be able to shell Zaporizhzhia and turn it into a second Kherson. Although Kherson is not captured by Russian troops, they are doing everything to ensure that life in this city does not exist, so that people leave," the military expert emphasized.

Stupak also indicated that at the beginning of 2026, the Russians will attempt to capture Kostiantynivka, while Sloviansk and Kramatorsk will also be in their plans.

As a reminder, reserve major of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksii Het'man stated that the dictator of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin has set a deadline for the occupiers until February. Now the Russian troops have a new timeline for capturing Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad in Donetsk region, as well as Huliaipole in the Zaporizhzhia region.

The situation in the Zaporizhzhia region remains tense, as control over Stepnohirs'k could significantly impact the security of the Zaporizhzhia regional center. The occupying forces are trying to strengthen their position, which raises concerns among the local population and military analysts. These events could be decisive in the near future if the Russians continue their offensive.