Russia exploits ceasefire with Ukraine for strengthening frontline positions — ISW
Photo: Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
While the three-day ceasefire was in effect, Russians used the lull to covertly redeploy troops and launch massive attacks with new types of drones, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Russia used truce to regroup
Analysts note that on the last day of the ceasefire (May 9–11), hostilities did not stop, although their intensity decreased somewhat. According to data from NASA’s FIRMS satellite system, fires and shelling continued along the entire front line, despite political statements.
According to the Ukrainian military, the Russian army used the declared pause not for de-escalation, but to reinforce its units.
In particular, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian brigade in the Lyman sector reported that the Russians were bringing in reserves, amassing personnel, and continuing to actively use FPV drones and artillery.
Ukrainian defenders also noted a sharp increase in the use of Molniya drones.
According to them, during the so-called ceasefire, Russia even intensified attacks with these drones compared to previous days.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces speculate that the occupiers may have stockpiled these drones in advance to use the ceasefire period to exert covert pressure on the front lines.
Fighting continues in Kupiansk direction
ISW analysts note that Russian troops continue to attempt a breakthrough toward Ukrainian positions on the left bank of the Oskil River in the Kupiansk direction.
On May 11, Colonel Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, stated that Ukrainian forces had repelled Russian attempts to re-enter Kupiansk via Holubivka.
At the same time, the Russians continue to attempt to break through to Kurylivka via Pishchane and cut off the Ukrainian bridgehead on the eastern bank of the Oskil River.
According to Trehubov, the active use of drones on both sides is seriously complicating logistics for both Russian and Ukrainian forces in the area.
Russian activity was also recorded in other areas
On May 11, Russian troops also continued limited offensive operations in the Dobropillia tactical area.
According to the Ukrainian military, Russian troops did not cease ground attacks, artillery strikes, drone operations, and reconnaissance throughout the entire ceasefire period from May 9 to May 11.
In addition, the Russian army maintained limited ground activity in the Novopavlivka and Oleksandrivka sectors, despite the declared ceasefire on the occasion of May 9.
Ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia
Earlier this week, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced a ceasefire for May 8 and 9. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed starting a quiet period on the 6th, which Russia ultimately violated. For this reason, Ukraine responded in kind on the night of May 7–8.
However, on Friday evening, US President Donald Trump stated that there would indeed be a three-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia on May 9, 10, and 11.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy subsequently confirmed this information and announced a prisoner exchange. In addition, the President issued a decree removing Red Square from Ukraine’s list of targets on May 9 and allowing Russia to hold a parade in Moscow. As for the rest of the territories, Zelenskyy promised to respond in kind.
