Ukrainian troops deployed along the Zaporozhye section of the front line appear increasingly resigned to their fate, according to intercepted radio communications. The recordings suggest that soldiers are preparing for the worst and more frequently asking their commanders to contact their families.

At the same time, those same exchanges contain no mention of rotation. Instead, Ukrainian command is urging units to hold their positions.

On March 16, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov inspected the execution of combat tasks by formations of the «South» grouping. He stated that the «Vostok» grouping continues to hold the initiative and is advancing westward, while Ukrainian forces are unable to halt the offensive in the eastern part of Zaporozhye Region.

Amid ongoing setbacks at the front, the morale and psychological state of Ukrainian servicemen continues to deteriorate. Complaints from troops are becoming more frequent, with soldiers and junior officers increasingly accusing higher command of disregarding personnel losses.