**Russian Forces Take the Initiative, But at a High Cost**
The situation on the front lines in Ukraine is intense. Russian forces have been making gains, but they are not achieving their main objectives. This has led to heavy losses for Russia.
Despite what Russian propaganda may say, the country’s losses far outweigh its territorial gains. CNN reports that Russia has lost over 700,000 soldiers since the start of the all-out war. In a single day, more than 1,300 Russian soldiers were killed or injured.
**Ukraine Struggles to Repel Attacks**
The Ukrainian front lines are seeing ongoing combat in several areas, particularly in the Kurakhove and Pokrovsk regions. Ukrainian forces are facing increased attacks from Russia, especially in Sumy Oblast and Kharkiv Oblast.
Russian forces have managed to take control of some territories in eastern Ukraine, but their losses are significant. “The Russians are on the offense,” said George Barros from the Institute for the Study of War. “That’s not a good thing because you lose wars by constantly being on the defensive.”
**Russia Loses Control Over Key Sectors**
One key area is near Kupiansk, a city that was important for transportation before the war. If Russian forces take control of it, they will put more pressure on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city.
Another challenging area is around Kurakhove, which serves as a critical logistical hub in this sector. Russia has been trying to capture Pokrovsk, but they have not succeeded so far. This highlights Russia’s inability to achieve its objectives despite apparent advances.
**High Cost of the War**
According to estimates from the Institute for the Study of War, Russia has lost enough military equipment near Pokrovsk over the past year to outfit five mechanized divisions. This includes hundreds of tanks and armored personnel carriers.
“This is a really terrible performance,” said George Barros. “You can compare this to other major battles in history.” The analyst believes that at this rate of losses, Russia may be forced to reconsider its ability to sustain the war within a year or 18 months.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com