Russia has been constructing extensive fortifications in Crimea, including trenches near Medvedivka and Vitino settlements, anti-tank embankments, ditches, artillery positions, and 'dragon's teeth' concrete pyramidal structures along the Black Sea coast and Syvash Lake.

Russia has built a complete web of trenches and fortifications on the peninsula in just a few weeks

The Russians have installed anti-tank embankments, ditches and artillery along the coast of the Black Sea

A whole web of trenches from the side of Syvash Lake, some exceeding 900 metres in length

Three rows of concrete pyramidal anti-tank structures ('dragon's teeth')

Satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies shows Russia has built dozens of defensive structures spanning several miles in Crimea, centered along coastal areas ahead of an expected Ukrainian spring offensive.

Ian Matveev stated that for Putin, Crimea is a 'sacred cow' and troops would be immediately sent to defend it if necessary.