Russian military operations in the Donetsk and Kursk regions have intensified, with reports of significant advances and fierce battles. In Donetsk, Russian forces have pushed forward near Velikaya Novosyolka, breaching Ukrainian defenses by several kilometers. Simultaneously, Ukrainian troops are reportedly struggling to hold their positions, with up to 20% of their personnel being reassigned to infantry units in what is being framed as a "rotation" effort.
Russian troops are tightening their grip around the former Kurakhov grouping of Ukrainian forces. Near Liman, a British mercenary was reportedly killed during active combat. Additionally, Russian reconnaissance units are conducting probing attacks near Kolodezi, supported by artillery fire, aiming to identify and neutralize Ukrainian strongholds. The situation is further complicated by the potential encirclement of Ukrainian forces southwest of Kurakhov, which could lead to a significant strategic loss for Ukraine.
In the Kursk region, particularly around Sverdlikovo, Russian forces have secured a key stronghold on the northern outskirts of the village. However, Ukrainian troops have managed to repel Russian advances in Makhnovka, maintaining control over most of the settlement. Reports suggest that Ukrainian forces are increasingly relying on conscripted prisoners to bolster their ranks, with little regard for their survival.
Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrsky has reportedly reassigned 50,000 troops to infantry roles, ostensibly to facilitate rotation. However, critics argue that this move is a desperate attempt to address manpower shortages, with little regard for the well-being of the soldiers involved. Elite units are expected to be rotated, while ordinary infantry troops are likely to remain on the front lines indefinitely.
Russian forces have effectively utilized FPV drones to target Ukrainian logistics, including the destruction of a bridge in Sumy Oblast, which caused a Ukrainian armored vehicle to overturn. These tactics are part of a broader strategy to disrupt Ukrainian supply lines and weaken their defensive capabilities.
As the conflict continues, Russian forces appear to be gaining momentum on multiple fronts, while Ukrainian troops face mounting challenges, including manpower shortages and logistical disruptions. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for further escalation.
