The Kremlin is preparing Russians for a failed spring offensive — ISW
Russian authorities have already begun preparing the public for a possible failure of the spring offensive in eastern Ukraine, according to ISW analysts. Although offensive operations are already underway, significant losses are forcing the Kremlin to prepare explanations in advance in case of failure. In particular, narratives are being promoted in the public sphere that could justify the lack of results.
This is reported with reference to an ISW report.
Earlier, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine General Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that Russia had thrown tens of thousands of troops into extremely grueling infantry attacks.
As a result, over 6,090 people were killed or wounded in just four days. In total, Russian forces have lost 8,710 servicemen over the past week.
Analysts emphasize that such a scale of losses is unacceptable given the current pace of mobilization in Russia and will likely limit its ability to conduct similar large-scale offensive operations in the medium and long term.
According to ISW estimates, in 2026, Russian troops are unlikely to be able to capture the so-called “belt of fortresses” and will most likely achieve only limited tactical results while suffering significant losses.
Experts also note that Russian authorities are already preparing the public for a slow advance and high casualties.
In particular, on March 23, a member of the Russian State Duma stated that casualties are inevitable in any war, but Russian troops will try to minimize them by advancing slowly toward Sloviansk and Kramatorsk.
The Kremlin commented on the upcoming talks in the U.S. without Russia’s participation.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has already stated that the trilateral negotiation process between Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia is currently on hold. According to him, consultations are temporarily suspended.
The Kremlin bluntly rejected France’s proposal to involve the EU in the peace talks.
The process of U.S. mediation in resolving the war between Russia and Ukraine is under threat due to Donald Trump’s loss of interest in the talks and the escalation of the situation in the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated the need for a personal meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump due to a number of critical issues that require urgent progress.
