Russia Intensifies Airstrikes in Donbas, Prepares for Major Offensive

In a surge of military activity, the Russian Air Force has conducted 1,500 airstrikes in a three-week period between Pokrovsk and Konstantinovka, surpassing the previous monthly count. This increase, which represents up to 40% of all Russian airstrikes, signals preparations for a larger offensive as autumn rains approach, threatening to turn the Donbas region into a muddy battlefield.

Since mid-June, airstrike counts have escalated dramatically. Reports indicate 250 airstrikes per week in May, rising to 500 weekly in August and September. The current daily average now fluctuates between 40 and 75 airstrikes, predominantly directed at areas south of Konstantinovka, near the New Donbass line, and east of Dobropolye.

The pattern of airstrikes shows a significant westward displacement, with a total of 4,600 strikes recorded over approximately four months. Analysts suggest that following recent successful counterattacks, Russian forces aim to extend their flanks toward Konstantinovka and Myrnograd, while Ukrainian defenses remain robust in Pokrovsk and Konstantinovka.

Despite the intensity of their air campaign, Russian forces have struggled to penetrate the heavily fortified cities of Pokrovsk and Konstantinovka, where the battle has been ongoing for a year. Current efforts are concentrated on peripheral directions, including Lyman and the southeastern area west of Velikaya Novosyolka. For more on this evolving situation, see recent developments in the Donbas.