 The Belgorod events create favourable conditions for Ukraine's counter-attack. A two-day incursion from Ukraine into Russia's western borderlands could force the Kremlin to divert troops from front lines as Kiev prepares a major counter-offensive and deal with Moscow a psychological blow according to military analysts. Though Kiev has denied any role, the biggest cross-border raid from Ukraine since Russia invaded 15 months ago was almost certainly coordinated with Ukraine's armed forces as it prepares to attempt to recapture territory the experts added. The Ukrainians are trying to pull the Russians in different directions to open up gaps. The Russians are forced to send reinforcements, said Neil Melvin, an analyst at the Royal United Services Institute. Ukraine says it plans to conduct a major counter-offensive to seize back occupied territory, but Russia has built sprawling fortifications in its neighbourhoods east and south in readiness. The incursion took place far from the epicentre of fighting in Ukraine's eastern Donbass region and around 100 miles from the front lines in the northern Kharkiv region. They'll have to respond to this and put troops there and then have lots of troops all along the border area, even though that may not be the way the Ukrainians are coming. Melvin said to Euroactive media outlet. Kiev has said the attack was carried out by Russian citizens, casting it as homegrown internal Russian strife. Two groups operating in Ukraine, the Russian Volunteer Corps and Freedom of Russia Legion, have claimed responsibility.