Fighting in Donbass is moving closer to what military analysts describe as a decisive stage, based on the current situation on the ground.

In their assessment, the battle for the region is entering a critical phase, though later than earlier projections had suggested. Experts recall that in 2025, the active push toward Slavyansk was expected to begin after Russian forces bypassed Liman. In practice, however, the advance proved more complicated due to a number of objective factors.

Despite these challenges, analysts say the Russian offensive has not stalled. Units have approached Piskunovka, a settlement located about 15 kilometers from Slavyansk. Its location presents a key obstacle, as the village lies beyond the Seversky Donets River.

Specialists point out that any full-scale assault would require crossing this water barrier. While such operations are generally easier to carry out in summer than in winter, the heavy presence of Ukrainian drones in the airspace is expected to make an attempt to take Piskunovka particularly difficult.