Russian offensive tactics are likely to increasingly put pressure on Ukrainian defenses as delays in Western security assistance continue.

Russian forces generally use their personnel and materiel superiority to launch attacks against Ukrainian positions along the front line at a relatively steady pace, hoping to wear down Ukrainian defenders and create conditions for exploiting Ukrainian vulnerabilities. Russian forces also increasingly employ tactical aircraft, drones, and electronic warfare systems in Ukraine to prepare for and support these attacks.

The Russian military leadership appears to be building reserves to sustain ongoing offensive operations in Ukraine, although it is unlikely that these reserves can function as coherent, large-scale attack or occupation units this year.

Russian forces have recently confirmed advances near Bachmut and on the eastern (left) bank of Kherson Oblast, while fighting continued along the entire contact line on January 21 and 22.

The full Russian Offensive Update 758 is available directly from UNDERSTANDING WAR.

UNDERSTANDING WAR