Ukraine’s Defense Forces are regaining the tactical initiative on various sectors of the front line. Over recent months, they have conducted a series of counterattacks, achieving the most significant gains since Ukraine’s incursion into Russia’s Kursk region in August 2024. This was reported by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Source: OBOZREVATEL
As of May 14, Ukrainian forces, according to analysts, were conducting more offensive operations than Russian forces.
Counterattacks and shifting frontline dynamics
Ukrainian forces, ISW notes, are gradually restoring tactical initiative on several directions. In particular, during counterattacks, a significant part of Kupiansk was retaken since November 2025, more than 400 square kilometers were liberated in southern Ukraine in winter and spring 2026, and several settlements in western Zaporizhzhia region were de-occupied.
Analysts note that these actions have created a cascading effect, influencing Russia’s spring-summer offensive on the so-called “Fortress Belt.”
As a result, Russian forces are forced to split their resources between defending against Ukrainian counterattacks and conducting offensive operations on priority sectors of the front.
Strikes on Russian logistics
ISW also notes that an intensified Ukrainian medium-range strike campaign against Russian logistics, equipment, and manpower since early 2026 has significantly complicated Russia’s ability to conduct offensive operations.
According to analysts, this may have contributed to recent Ukrainian gains.
General Staff position
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi told Militarnyi that precise strikes, destruction of Russian reserves, and continuous pressure on assault units are allowing Ukraine to gradually seize the initiative.
He noted that as of May 14, the number of Ukrainian offensive actions exceeded Russian ones, which may indicate a shift in tactical dynamics in Ukraine’s favor.
At the same time, analysts emphasize that this refers to the tactical level, and the situation on the front remains difficult and dynamic.
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