According to “Russian forces are trying toISW“, to regain the initiative through several simultaneous offensive operations in eastern Ukraine. Although it remains unclear whether Russia can fully regain control, Ukrainian forces continue to put pressure on critical frontline areas. Ukrainian officials, including Commander-in-Chief Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi, emphasize the complexity of the situation but maintain that Ukraine remains in control of the battlefield.

Intense fighting at the front

General Zaluzhnyi and the commander of the Ukrainian ground forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, report intense fighting in areas such as Avdiivka, Kupiansk and Marinka. President Volodymyr Zelensky also mentioned an increase in Russian attacks in these directions. ISW confirms the Ukrainian information and points to the ongoing Russian offensives, particularly in the direction of Kupyansk and Bakhmut.

Tactical decisions shape the front

The Russian armed forces face the challenge of regaining the initiative across the entire operational area. Ukrainian troops are conducting offensives of their own and making tactical advances, particularly in western Zaporizhzhia Oblast and on the eastern bank of Kherson Oblast. The Russian military command must decide whether to keep troops defending certain sectors of the front or redeploy them to support other offensives. ISW emphasizes that these strategic decisions will likely prevent Russia from taking full initiative in the coming weeks.