Russian Donbas Offensive Stalls Amid Heavy Losses in Kostiantynivka and Druzhkivka

Russia’s offensive in the Donbas region continues to struggle as its depleted forces attempt to seize key urban centres such as Kostiantynivka, Druzhkivka, Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Fuel shortages, damaged refineries and stretched supply lines have limited the ability to reinforce and hold newly‑gained positions, while Ukrainian drones and counter‑attacks target isolated Russian assault groups.

In recent days Russian troops have advanced on a three‑pronged axis aimed at encircling Druzhkivka, capturing the village of Torskoe and seizing Khrystoforovka in the Dnipropetrovsk region. The 36th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade reported heavy Ukrainian losses, including a full company, multiple armoured and support vehicles, and combat drones. The pattern of incremental gains suggests a deteriorating Russian operational momentum in the sector.