Nearly 10,000 concrete pyramids, known as “dragon’s teeth,” have been installed in Kyiv Oblast as part of an effort to fortify the region, Governor Ruslan Kravchenko said on March 30. In the fall of 2023, the authorities received criticism for the progress on fortifying defensive lines, leading to the establishment of a working group in November to coordinate fortification efforts. Ukrainian troops are building fortifications in expectation of a Russian offensive in the spring, with concerns about the progress not being fast enough. President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the importance of quality, meeting deadlines, and efficient use of funds in the construction efforts in order to ensure the most effective protection for the region.
The construction in Kyiv Oblast includes an extensive system of trenches, dugouts, anti-tank ditches, and other non-explosive barriers to enhance the region’s defense. Governor Kravchenko stated that almost 10,000 concrete pyramids have already been installed, along with an anti-tank ditch. The construction is under strict control, with regular communication between local authorities and the military to ensure the structures are effective and provide reliable protection. Zelensky has visited Sumy Oblast to inspect fortifications and has been briefed on the project for the construction of a platoon stronghold near Sumy, which includes reinforced concrete structures, firing positions for tanks and infantry fighting vehicles, and corrugated steel shelters to strengthen the defense in the region.
The Wall Street Journal reported on the efforts of Ukrainian troops to fortify the region in anticipation of a potential Russian offensive in the coming months. While Zelensky mentioned that the situation on the battlefield has stabilized compared to earlier months, he did not rule out the possibility of a major Russian offensive at the end of May or in June. To address concerns about the pace of progress in fortification efforts, a focus on quality, adherence to deadlines, and efficient use of resources has been emphasized to ensure that the structures provide the necessary protection for the region. The ongoing construction of fortifications in Kyiv Oblast aims to create a strong defense through the installation of various barriers and structures to deter potential threats.
As part of the fortification efforts in Kyiv Oblast, the construction includes a combination of trenches, dugouts, anti-tank ditches, and nearly 10,000 concrete pyramids known as “dragon’s teeth.” These structures are designed to fortify the region and provide protection against potential threats. The construction is being closely monitored and controlled to ensure that the structures meet the required standards and are completed within the specified timelines. With the possibility of a Russian offensive looming, the focus on fortifications is essential to strengthen Ukraine’s defense and enhance the security of the region. President Zelensky’s visits to inspect fortifications and his emphasis on the importance of quality and efficiency in construction highlight the commitment to fortifying the region effectively.
In response to criticisms about the progress of fortification efforts, a working group was established to coordinate the construction of defensive lines in Kyiv Oblast. Ukrainian troops have been working diligently to build fortifications in anticipation of a potential Russian offensive, with concerns about the pace of progress. President Zelensky’s visits to various regions to inspect the fortifications and his emphasis on meeting deadlines and ensuring quality in construction demonstrate the commitment to fortifying the region effectively. The ongoing construction efforts aim to create a robust defense through a combination of barriers, trenches, dugouts, and other structures to enhance the security and protection of the region. With the threat of a Russian offensive looming, the focus on fortifications is crucial to safeguarding Ukraine and its citizens.
