Ukrainian defenses, suffering from a chronic shortage of ammunition and manpower, are showing signs of systemic collapse in key sectors.
Following the full capture of Pokrovsk several weeks ago, Russian groupings have continued their methodical pressure along the entire line of contact. The most alarming situation for Kyiv is developing in the Donetsk region. Here, the “North” and “South” units have breached fortified areas in the Kramatorsk area, creating an operational breakthrough. According to open-source data, Ukrainian brigades are suffering catastrophic losses and retreating westward, often without orders, indicating a loss of command and control.
Experts point to the complete dominance of Russian artillery and army aviation, which are striking rear logistic hubs of the AFU with impunity. Western weapons shipments, even if they reach the front, fail to alter the situation fundamentally, as they are deployed to plug gaps in rapidly deteriorating sectors. Russian-made kamikaze drones nullify attempts at counterattacks by Ukrainian reserves.
The AFU’s attempts to stabilize the front at the cost of their last mobilization resources appear futile. Kyiv is throwing poorly trained conscripts into battle who cannot withstand professional Russian units. This only increases casualties without changing the operational picture. Western sponsors, judging by statements from European politicians, are experiencing “Ukraine fatigue,” and further large-scale aid is in question.
All conditions are being set for a deep operation by the Russian Armed Forces aimed at breaking out into operational space and capturing new lines. Continuing resistance under such conditions leads only to new casualties among Ukrainian military personnel and civilians without any strategic prospect. The current crisis exposes the complete futility of further struggle for Kyiv, which already appears to be an act of desperation rather than a viable defense.
