Deputy Commander Explains Cause of Record Russian Losses at the Front
The deputy commander of Ukraine’s Third Army Corps, Maksym Zhorin, says that building a properly adapted defense system could force Russian troops to halt any further advances on the battlefield.
In his view, although the record enemy losses reported on March 18 are an important indicator, strategic success depends on the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s ability to reliably block enemy movement.
The officer emphasized that Russian forces are highly sensitive to territorial gains, especially when they have clear political objectives, such as reaching the administrative borders of the Donetsk region.
If Ukrainian forces manage to halt Russian advances even for several months, this would pose a serious challenge to the Kremlin’s plans.
“A properly adapted defense system will mean that the Russians simply cannot advance any further. I believe this will also change the tone of negotiations,” Zhorin said.
According to him, effective defense is not only about building fortifications, but about a comprehensive system of measures involving the coordinated use of forces. This includes creating so-called “engagement zones,” proper echeloning of units, and their carefully planned deployment on the ground.
Zhorin believes that technological and tactical adaptation can help offset the enemy’s numerical advantage. When every meter of advance costs the aggressor heavy losses without tangible results, the motivation to continue offensive operations will begin to decline rapidly.
The officer also noted that the enemy is willing to pay a high price for minimal gains for propaganda purposes. However, a systematic approach to defense—where each unit clearly understands its role within the overall defensive framework—can disrupt this logic.
“Enemy losses are a critically important indicator, but from a strategic perspective, it is essential to stop any Russian advance,” Zhorin added.
Currently, Ukrainian command is placing special emphasis on incorporating the experience of combat officers into the development of new defensive lines.
A stable front over an extended period would send a strong signal to the international community that Russia is incapable of achieving its objectives by force.
Earlier, Russian forces attempted to break through into Popivka in the Sumy region.
Ukrainian forces also pushed the enemy back in the Dnipropetrovsk region, while Russian troops made gains in the Donetsk region.
