Russia has intensified its military operations in Ukraine, leveraging its numerical superiority to expand the frontlines and exert pressure on Ukrainian defenses. The Wall Street Journal reports that Russian forces are “pressing their advantage” by deploying a larger number of troops, leading to intensified fighting across a broader front in Ukraine.
In the Donetsk region, Russian troops have made significant advances, capturing key settlements such as Avdiivka and Marinka by February 2024. The capture of Avdiivka, a fortified city, was particularly strategic, as it served as a gateway to Donetsk city. Following this, Russian forces expanded their control, forming a salient northwest of Avdiivka and capturing settlements like Ocheretyne in April 2024.
The Novopavlivka offensive, initiated in March 2025, has seen Russian forces advancing towards the Dnipropetrovsk region. By June 2025, Russia claimed to have reached this region for the first time, marking a significant territorial gain.
In the northeastern Sumy region, Russian forces have been conducting assaults to prevent Ukrainian troops from redeploying experienced units to the eastern front. This strategy aims to stretch Ukrainian defenses and create vulnerabilities along the frontlines.
The Royal United Services Institute notes that Russia’s expansion of the frontlines has forced Ukrainian forces to spread their resources thin, complicating their defensive operations. By stretching Ukrainian forces along a wide front, Russia is overcoming the limitations of its undertrained army.
As the conflict continues, both sides are preparing for potential ceasefire negotiations in the fall. However, Russia’s recent tactical gains and increased confidence present significant challenges for Ukraine in stabilizing the frontlines and maintaining territorial integrity.
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