[Tee tiong huat]

Ukraine's defence minister has said Russia is preparing a major new offensive, and warned that it could begin as soon as 24 February.

Oleksii Reznikov said Moscow had amassed thousands of troops and could "try something" to mark the anniversary of the initial invasion last year.

The attack would also mark Russia's Defender of the Fatherland Day on 23 February, which celebrates the army.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64492938

The Ukraine Defense Minister has played a key role in securing weapons from Ukraine’s Western partners, most recently the pledge of heavy tanks from countries including Germany and the U.S. Kyiv is now pushing for longer-range missiles and fighter jets.

In his statement to Kyiv Post, he added: “There are still planes on my wish list to Santa. I believe in the victory of Ukraine. And I will do everything for this. Regardless of status or position.”

Reports of Reznikov’s desire to step down circulated on Ukrainian media on Thursday morning. Reznikov added, “My main task at this time is the maximum of modern weapons for Ukraine in order to win. I have something to tell my grandchildren.”

According to LIGA.net, Reznikov expressed a desire to resign back in the summer, but he was not allowed to because of the upcoming Ramstein meeting.