 Russia is strengthening its defense positions ahead of the Ukrainian army's attack on Crimea. The Russian Federation has begun to create defensive lines near Perikop, apparently preparing a scenario where the Ukrainian military will try to enter Crimea. United Kingdom Defense Intelligence reports. It notes that in recent weeks, Russian forces have continued to build up their defenses in the rear, especially on the outskirts of occupied Crimea. This includes an extensive zone of defenses of 9 km in length, 3.5 km north of the town Armiask on the narrow bridge of land-connecting Crimea to the Karsan region. These elaborate defenses highlight the Russian command's assessment that Ukrainian forces are capable of directly assaulting Crimea. Russia continues to see maintaining control of the peninsula as a top political priority. Defense Intelligence writes.