Lyman Counterattacks Highlight Frontline Realities Amid Moscow's Spending Push
ISW notes Ukrainian counterattacks near Lyman are drawing attention from milbloggers who fault a culture of misinformation in the Russian military; neither side shows confirmed gains on Sep 9, while Russia’s expansionary fiscal policy widens the budget deficit to about 5.8 trillion rubles through August 2026 and funds defense spending. Moscow and Kyiv continue strikes on rear and frontline assets, including Ukrainian strikes against ports and air defenses, with Belarus increasing cooperation. The overall picture remains limited battlefield gains for Russia despite heavy casualties, as reports reflect contested maps, inflated claims, and a persistent war of attrition.