Russia’s military is planning a fresh offensive in the coming weeks, aimed at strengthening its negotiating position with Ukraine, according to Ukrainian government officials and military analysts. The Kremlin aims to maximize pressure on Ukraine as ceasefire talks enter their second phase.
The expected multi-pronged push across the 1,000-kilometer front line will likely give Russia an advantage in the war, having recaptured 80% of its territory in the Kursk region ahead of negotiations. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that his forces have the strategic initiative on the entire front line.
Ukrainian military analysts warn that Russia is intensifying its fighting across other parts of the front line, with battles escalating along the eastern front in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia. The Kremlin’s forces may divert battle-hardened troops from Kursk to other areas of the east, which could make future Ukrainian offensives more challenging.
Meanwhile, negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have stalled due to disagreements over conditions for a partial ceasefire on Black Sea shipping routes. Russian demands have led to frustration among Ukrainian officials, who fear that Moscow’s goals are not aligned with peace talks.
As tensions continue to escalate, both sides appear to be preparing for the spring-summer campaign. However, Ukrainian forces may struggle to prepare adequately for the upcoming offensive, according to some analysts. The conflict remains a pressing concern, with little progress reported at the negotiating table.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-spring-fighting-offensive-ceasefire-talks-49ee814cc4a8416c444ab7deae42488c