Russian Infighting in Crimea Amid Ukraine Offensive Preparations

Infighting among top Russian officials in Crimea is growing ahead of an anticipated spring counteroffensive from Ukraine that may target the Black Sea peninsula. The pair offered conflicting statements this week on whether traditional military parades set to take place next month to celebrate Victory Day had been scrapped in Crimea. A Ukrainian official said there is no mutual understanding between the pair at the moment, and pointed to the conflicting statements given on the Victory Day parades. Russian troops have been preparing defense fortifications in Crimea ahead of an anticipated Ukrainian advance.