Intelligence assessments from London and Kyiv confirm a fresh Russian offensive building in the Donbas. A major assault on the strategic city of Chasiv Yar is expected within days. UK defence officials say Russian forces have amassed armour and infantry in the region.
A breakthrough could shift the front line westwards. The offensive follows months of grinding attrition. Casualty estimates on both sides remain high.
For Ukrainian defenders, ammunition shortages persist. Western aid packages remain mired in political debate. In the towns and villages of the eastern front, residents brace for a new wave of violence.
Evacuations are underway, but many elderly and infirm cannot leave. The humanitarian toll is mounting. This war is entering its third year.
There is no sign of diplomatic breakthrough. The Kremlin appears intent on securing territorial gains before any eventual ceasefire talks. For the soldiers in the muddy trenches of Donbas, the coming weeks could be decisive.