Russian convoy outside Kyiv has redeployed into firing positions, satellite photos show

The photos also show the heavy damage the Kyiv region has already suffered as forces move closer to the prime target of the invasion.

New satellite images show the massive Russian military convoy that has been stalled outside Ukraine’s capital Kyiv for over a week has now redeployed, with artillery — including probable rocket launchers — moving into firing positions.

The photos, which were taken Thursday and provided to Global News by American space technology company Maxar, also show the heavy damage the Kyiv region has already suffered as forces move closer to the prime target of the invasion.

The Russian convoy, which was estimated to be nearly 65 kilometres (40 miles) long over a week ago, has advanced as far as the Antonov airport in Hostomel, northwest of Kyiv.

But Western intelligence said the convoy has been stuck in the same position ever since due to fuel and food shortages, allowing Ukrainian resistance fighters to destroy vehicles and troops.

Now, Maxar’s latest images show that while parts of the convoy remain stretched along the highway on the capital’s outskirts, some vehicles have repositioned themselves in the trees and nearby fields. Resupply vehicles were also seen.

The photos show artillery vehicles, including probable rocket launchers, in firing positions about 40 kilometres northwest of the capital.

Moscow is intent on capturing Kyiv and other major cities, with the ultimate goal of toppling Ukraine’s democratic government.

But three weeks into the invasion, the Russian military has not gained any significant ground. Heavily besieged cities are continuing to resist occupation, despite constant shelling and the deaths of potentially hundreds of civilians.