Americans reveal Russian military's specific goal
According to a recent report from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Russian forces have notably increased their attacks in Ukraine. American analysts believe that the Kremlin's military is seeking to seize the initiative at the front before the upcoming presidential elections in Russia.
The ISW indicates, "Russian forces have started offensive operations in multiple locations amid the most challenging weather conditions of the fall-winter season, aiming to achieve and sustain the initiative until Russia's presidential elections in March 2024."
Earlier, Ukrainians warned that the invaders are launching assaults at the border of the Kharkiv and Lugansk regions, near Bakhmut and Avdiivka, as well as in Zaporizhia.
"They are under pressure"
American assessments show that Ukrainian forces still hold the initiative in key southern areas of the country. Analysts suggest that the current state of the front signals that Vladimir Putin's troops "are under pressure".
The ISW highlights that the Ukrainians' counteroffensive has previously blocked the Russians from executing offensive maneuvers.
As per the report, "It is unclear whether the recent intensified attacks by Putin's army will lead to significant accomplishments soon."
Further, experts observe that the invaders "do not amass reserves in preparation for larger scale winter operations".
Source: ISW
