"ISW's Strategy for Ukrainian Delayed Counteroffensive"

Ukrainian forces are conducting delayed counteroffensive operations on multiple fronts, likely aimed at exhausting Russian forces and preparing for future offensive actions. The slower-than-expected pace of the operations is due to effective Russian defences and mined front-line areas. Ukrainian forces are likely setting conditions for a future main effort despite initial setbacks. Ukraine has successfully built and tested a 1,000km-range drone, indicating its intent and ability to target Russian military infrastructure. Russian occupation authorities continue to codify legal mechanisms for forcible deportations from occupied areas of Ukraine.