The war is entering a decisive phase - Russia is preparing an offensive on Kharkiv

Ukraine faces a decisive winter - if Donbas falls, Russia will launch an offensive on Kharkiv

Publications. Foreign Affairs reports that Ukraine is expected to a decisive winter in the war with russia. If the Armed Forces fail to hold the Donbas, the Kremlin can launch a new large-scale offensive in the direction of Kharkiv.

In parallel, on the southern front Ukrainian defence forces withdraw from a number of positions in Zaporizhzhya, The spokesman for the operational command «South» said» Dmitry Voloshin.

Withdrawal of troops

According to Voloshin, after a series of massive assaults and more than 400 attacks per day Ukrainian units were forced to withdraw from the settlements of Novouspenske, Nove, Okhotnyche, Uspenivka and Novomykolaivka.

«After prolonged fighting and the destruction of fortification lines, the command decided to withdraw troops to more favourable positions,» the spokesman said.

The situation in the region remains tense, with the enemy actively using aviation, artillery and assault groups to push deeper into the defences.

Possible winter scenario

Analysts Foreign Affairs warn that The winter period will be a key stage of the war. If Russia succeeds in the Donbas, it could redeploy forces for a new offensive on Kharkiv, and intensify attacks on critical infrastructure to weaken Ukraine's rear.

The Ukrainian military command emphasises that the main task is to hold strategic positions, despite losses, and to prevent the enemy from expanding its footholds.