> Ukraine does have a mechanized infantry core that's already done some pretty amazing offenses. But Ukraine obviously needs to make that core larger and stronger for the upcoming offensive.

It's also big news as an offensive in the south can cut off supply to Crimea and thus lead to a siege similar to the one of Kherson. It would already be very hard for Putin to endure more major defeats but Ukraine retaking Crimea or even Mauripol could ultimate sign Russia's defeat and Putin's demise.