Russia targets Donbas with potential long-term goals beyond eastern Ukraine

Russian military forces continue offensive operations in Ukraine, with significant combat activity reported near Pokrovsk and around Konstantynivka. While Russian advances on the front are currently estimated at an average of 20 meters per day, the intensity of attacks remains high in several sectors.

Military analysts and Ukrainian commanders warn that Russian objectives extend beyond the Donbas region. While full control of the Donbas could potentially be achieved by 2027, there are concerns that Russian forces may reach the outskirts of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk by the end of this year if Ukraine does not deploy additional reinforcements.

Intelligence reports suggest that Moscow's long-term strategic goals may include seizing control of the Mykolaiv, Kherson, and Odesa regions. Experts note that to sustain such high-intensity sieges and achieve these broader territorial goals, the Kremlin may eventually be forced to announce partial or full military mobilization.