Kathrine Frich
The analysts argue that Russia’s southern campaign is “devastatingly stalled.”
The analysts argue that Russia’s southern campaign is “devastatingly stalled.”
Pokrovsk Holds Strong Against Russian Advances
One of Russia’s main summer goals was to capture Pokrovsk, a vital logistics hub in Donetsk.
Despite months of assaults and heavy troop concentration, Moscow has failed to storm the city.
Ukrainian forces continue to hold their ground, ensuring supply routes remain open.
Saboteurs in Pokrovsk Defeated Within Weeks
Earlier in August, hundreds of Russian saboteurs infiltrated Pokrovsk in a surprise push.
Many feared this was a breakthrough for the Kremlin’s army.
Yet within three weeks, all Russian fighters were either killed or captured by Ukraine.
Buffer Zone Plan Collapses Along the Border
Putin ordered the creation of a 600-kilometre “buffer zone” in northern Ukraine.
It was meant to cover Chernihiv, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions after Russian setbacks.
But experts say Moscow controls less than 70 kilometres, calling it a “complete failure.”
Southern Front Stays Stalemated
Russia annexed Zaporizhzhia and Kherson back in 2022, claiming them as new territory.
Yet three years later, the front lines here have barely shifted at all.
Analysts argue this shows Russia’s southern campaign is “devastatingly stalled.”
Ukraine Exploits Weak Russian Air Defenses
Moscow’s air defense network is showing signs of collapse, according to military experts.
Ukraine is increasingly able to hit targets deep inside Russia with long-range drones
These strikes have disrupted energy sites and exposed gaps in Kremlin defenses.
Drone Attacks Hammer Russia’s Refineries
Ukrainian drones have destroyed about 17% of Russian refinery output in 2025.
This has triggered fuel shortages across the country and weakened Moscow’s logistics.
Energy facilities remain one of the Kremlin’s most vulnerable assets.
Tiny Territorial Gains After Heavy Losses
Despite months of fighting, Russia has only gained around 1,800 square kilometres.
This equals just 0.3% of Ukraine’s territory, far below Kremlin expectations.
Analysts say the cost in men and equipment has been enormous for such little ground.
“The Situation Is Better Than It Appears”
A Ukrainian officer told Bild: “We are holding the city and have prepared surprises.”
He added that Russian forces look stronger on maps than they are on the ground.
His comments underline the confidence of Ukrainian defenders despite pressure.
Kremlin Faces Mounting Military Strains
Experts argue that Russia’s army is overstretched and struggling to sustain attacks.
With growing losses and limited progress, morale among troops is said to be falling.
Even Kremlin media has struggled to portray the offensive as a success.
Zelensky Pushes Ceasefire, Not Surrender
Julian Röpcke concludes that Russia’s summer campaign has “completely failed.”
He says this is why Zelensky may accept a ceasefire, but not the surrender Moscow demands.
Ukraine insists it will not hand victory to Putin after so much sacrifice.
