Russia is slowly grinding through the Donbas as Ukraine braces for a brutal fight over its last strongholds
Russian forces are making slow, incremental advances in the Donbas region as Ukrainian troops prepare for intense defensive battles. Commanders on the ground describe the situation as a brutal war of attrition, highlighting the critical role of drone warfare.
Why it matters
The defense of these remaining strongholds is pivotal to the ongoing conflict, with the outcome likely to be determined by supply lines and technological capabilities.
A Ukrainian soldier looks out of a window of an apartment destroyed by shelling in the direction of Kostiantynivka. Alex Nikitenko/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images Russia is advancing slowly through the Donbas as Ukraine prepares to defend its last major strongholds. Ukrainian commanders say the fight for Kramatorsk and Sloviansk could become brutal battles of attrition. Analysts warn the outcome may hinge on Ukraine's ability to keep troops supplied under relentless drone and air attacks. There is a moment before the camera begins rolling when the young Ukrainian commander says, "History is repeating itself for us in the Donbas. Unfortunately." Then he falls silent. A few minutes later, the man, known by the call sign "Fleshka," takes a seat on a weight bench in the garden of a house in an eastern Ukrainian village, just a 30-minute drive from the nearest Russian troops.
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