Russia plans mega blitz on Ukraine before US weapons aid arrival, top Kyiv spy chief warns

The head of Ukraine's GUR military intelligence has warned that Russia is expected to hit Ukraine before the $61 billion aid from the USA is received.

14:07, Tue, Apr 23, 2024 | UPDATED: 15:23, Tue, Apr 23, 2024

Ukrainian servicemen are seen on top of an armored carrier return from the Semenivka battlefield nearby Avdiivka

Ukraine is soon receiving aid from the US (Image: Getty )

Ukraine braces for a massive onslaught from Russia as Moscow intensifies efforts to secure victory in the ongoing conflict before anticipated US weapon shipments can arrive, a top Kyiv spy chief warned.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence, cautioned that Russia is gearing up for a significant assault set to commence next month.

This comes as a Russian missile struck down a TV tower today in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, raising concerns of heightened aggression.

The Kharkiv region, situated just 15 miles from the Russian border, faces a heightened risk of a ground offensive following a previous tank assault during the war's beginning in February 2022.

Despite the looming threat, Budanov expressed confidence in Ukraine's resilience, affirming the nation's determination to endure and emerge victorious.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy - Alexander Stubb press conference in Kyiv

President Zelenskyy said that the aid package will help "stabilize the front line" (Image: Getty)

While acknowledging the forthcoming delivery of US weapons, Budanov said of the current situation: "It is not catastrophic. But there will be problems from mid-May."

The anticipated US weapon shipments follow the resolution of a five-month deadlock in the House of Representatives, with deliveries expected to commence shortly after final approval from the US Senate.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the impending aid, emphasising that the new weapons would bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities and help "stabilise the front line" against Russian aggression.

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The US House of Representatives approved a $95 billion foreign aid package (roughly £77 billion) aimed at bolstering support for Ukraine, Israel, and other key US allies.

The historic move came after months of contentious debates and resistance, particularly from the hard-right faction, regarding renewed American assistance in countering Russia's invasion.

In a swift and decisive vote, the House passed $61 billion (£49 billion) in aid specifically earmarked for Ukraine, demonstrating resolute commitment to providing substantial support to the war-torn ally. The chamber reverberated with applause from many Democrats, who proudly waved Ukrainian flags in a show of solidarity.

Following the successful passage of the aid package, Speaker Mike Johnson, instrumental in guiding the legislation through the House, expressed confidence in the decision, stating: "We did our work here, and I believe history will look favourably upon it."