Ukraine was too slow building the fortifications it needed to hold back Russian attacks, critics say

• Ukraine was too slow to build strong defenses in areas like Kharkiv, critics said.
• They said that Ukraine should have had defenses two or three lines deep, instead of one.
• Construction companies are racing to build more before Russia can advance further.

Ukraine was too slow to build the crucial fortifications that could hold back advancing Russian troops, according to critics.

Recent reports have shown Ukrainian soldiers complaining about the lack of defenses in two regions where Russia is gaining ground.