Experts indicate that while Ukraine reports its largest territorial gains since the summer of 2023, the ongoing frontline situation continues to favor Russia. Specifically, Russia can maintain its current attrition strategy due to extensive human reserves, while Ukraine would require significant increases in both manpower and weaponry to achieve a decisive turnaround, as per NATO sources. Recent Ukrainian advances, with up to 200 square kilometers gained in the eastern Zaporozhye region, are attributed largely to the disabling of Starlink internet terminals used by the Russian army.

Nevertheless, sources from The Times point out that as the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion approaches, the situation appears to be more advantageous for Moscow. After months of slow advancement characterized by heavy losses, Russian forces are pressing several strategic cities in the so-called fortress belt in Eastern Donbas and further tightening their grip on the Donetsk and Zaporozhye regions. According to Western sources, Ukrainian forces are numerically and technologically weaker across most fronts, particularly at segments near Lyman and Siversk, indicating ongoing challenges for Ukraine's efforts to repel Russian forces.