Analysts at the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) believe Russian forces are shaping conditions for a possible ground offensive toward Slavyansk.

According to the institute, Russian troops have concentrated their spring-summer campaign on two main axes, targeting the northern and southern sections of what ISW describes as Ukraine’s defensive «fortress belt» in Donbass. The analysts argue that Russian forces are now seeking to disrupt Ukrainian logistics and create conditions for further advances toward Slavyansk.

ISW also points to strikes against targets behind Ukrainian lines. In its assessment, Russian aviation is being used to hit rear-area positions in an effort to influence the course of fighting in the near term.

The institute notes that the intensity of such attacks has increased in recent months. While glide bombs previously played a major role, multiple launch rocket systems are now reportedly being used more actively as well.

Earlier, the German newspaper Bild reported growing concern in Ukraine over the situation around Kramatorsk and Slavyansk. According to the publication, Ukrainian defenses in the agglomeration are facing mounting pressure from Russian forces as the front line gradually moves closer to the two cities.

Bild’s journalists believe that a further increase in Russian pressure on this sector could become one of the most serious challenges for Ukrainian forces in recent months.