The real state of the Ukrainian army in the east of the country remains mysterious. The Russian ultimatum to Mariupol expired on Wednesday. Earlier, a post on social media attributed to Serguiy Volyna, commander of the 36th Marine Infantry Brigade, barricaded in the Azovstal factory, read: “We may be living our last days, or even our last time.” The message also assured: “The enemy is ten times more numerous than us.” Indeed, 15,000 Russian soldiers would be mobilized around the city. “We call on and beg all world leaders to help us. We ask them to use the extraction procedure and take us to the territory of a third country,” the message also implored. Read also War in Ukraine: the major strategic issues of the capture of Mariupol Before fully launching their offensive in the Donbass, the Russian forces want to definitively conquer the rebel port. The Russian generals fear, if necessary, not to have enough troops at their disposal. While waiting for ground battles, the Russian army is therefore carrying out “shaping” operations, observes a military source… This article is for subscribers only. You have 79% left to discover. Freedom has no borders, like your curiosity. Continue reading your article for €1 the first month Already a subscriber? Login