The think tank's analysis reiterates insights from a recent analysis, highlighting a three-way structure of Russian fortifications, involving deep minefields constituting the first line, artillery positions forming the second, and enemy rear positions forming the third.
According to the ISW, efforts to secure control over the strategic settlements of Robotyne and Urozhaine in the Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions have been central to the tactics of the Russian forces.
Recent Ukrainian advances in these regions, signaling a potential strain on Russian troops engaged in combat for over two months without rotation, are "likely reflective of a wider degradation of defending Russian forces," according to the ISW.
Lacking deployable reserves, Russia could face significant setbacks if further breaches in its defenses are achieved, the ISW predicted.
Since early June, a Ukrainian counteroffensive has been under way in the southern and eastern Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions.
The Ukrainian military, dealing with layers of enemy fortifications, including minefields, has achieved measured success. Kyiv's authorities have confirmed the recapture of approximately 10 localities, mainly in the western part of the Donetsk region.
On Wednesday, Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar announced the liberation of the eastern village of Urozhaine.
(jh/gs)
Source: PAP
