Occupying forces intend to focus on the capture of frontline cities such as Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Kurakhove.
According to the Institute for the Study of War, this tactic will allow the Russians to neutralize Ukraine's advantage in the use of drones.
Noted Russian propagandist and Kremlin-affiliated analyst Mikhail Zvintchuk stated that urban areas provide better protection against Ukrainian UAV attacks than open fields. Additionally, it is easier to conceal infantry in high-rise buildings and reduce losses of armored vehicles.
However, this strategy also carries its own risks. Experts from ISW indicate that exhausting urban combat will lead to significant casualties among Russian personnel. This could delay the occupying forces' offensive operations, thereby facilitating a Ukrainian counteroffensive.
Zvintchuk emphasized that the enemy plans to develop its offensive in Pokrovsk, approaching the city from the south and southeast. The recent focus on Selydivo is viewed as part of preparations for new attacks. Additionally, Russia intends to increase the number of drones to counter Ukrainian drone operators who are restraining the advance of the occupiers.
Analysts warn that the capture of cities such as Kupiansk or Vremivka could have a significant impact on the front. This would jeopardize key defensive positions for Ukraine.
"The recent advance of Russian troops into these cities would pose a threat, albeit not immediate, but still a high risk to the security of Ukrainian defensive positions on both fronts," the analysts emphasize.
Source: understandingwar.