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Russia masses troops again: Where next spring offensive could hit

Fri, March 13, 2026 - 06:40
3 min
Russian forces are using additional resources and trying to exploit vulnerable sections of Ukraine’s defense
Russia masses troops again: Where next spring offensive could hit Russian military (Photo: Getty Images)

Russian troops have intensified offensive operations on certain sections of the front in recent weeks. A particularly noticeable increase in attacks has been observed in the Zaporizhzhia direction, where the intensity of assaults has at times exceeded that of one of the most tense sectors of the front — the Pokrovsk direction, according to DeepState.

Overall dynamics of the fighting

According to analysts, during the first ten days of March, Russian forces carried out about 1,400 attacks across different parts of the front line.

This figure is considered one of the lowest in recent times, although it differs only slightly from the average levels of previous months.

From September to February, Russian units carried out an average of 1,800 assaults per month, indicating that combat intensity remains high.

Most active directions

The fiercest fighting continues in the Pokrovsk direction.

“Both Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad are essentially occupied, so the enemy is concentrating on Rodynske and Hryshyne, constantly sending infantry there for assaults,” analysts noted.

At the same time, Russian activity has noticeably increased near Huliaipole. According to observers, the number of attacks in this sector has already exceeded the intensity of fighting in the Pokrovsk direction.

Increased activity has also been recorded in the Kostiantynivka direction. Analysts say Russian units are systematically testing the defenses around the city, trying to secure positions and prepare the ground for further battles.

In addition, assaults have increased in the Sloviansk area. Experts link this to Russian advances near Siversk and the reinforcement of infantry units there.

Preparing for new conditions on the front

According to DeepState, the Russian command is also regrouping forces and replenishing reserves. Analysts believe these actions may be linked to changing weather conditions and the emergence of dense vegetation, which could influence combat tactics on the front line.

Ukraine is currently developing its own integrated air defense system. The future Ukrainian Iron Dome will differ from the Israeli version, as it is being designed to cover a much larger national territory.

Meanwhile, former US presidential special representative Keith Kellogg stated that Russian leader Vladimir Putin must recognize that Russia is no longer capable of winning the war against Ukraine. According to him, the Kremlin leader fears repeating the fate of the last Russian emperor, Nicholas II, who was executed after abdicating the throne.

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