Russia loses ground for second straight month in June; CSIS says it has lost the initiative
Russian forces lost territory in Ukraine for a second consecutive month in June, and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) assesses that Russia has lost the initiative.
The war in Ukraine is entering a new frozen phase as Russian advances slow or reverse in recent months. In June, Russia lost previously held positions for the second month in a row.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) states that Russia has lost the initiative in the conflict. Analysts note that the offensive capabilities of Russian forces have significantly declined, while Ukrainian defenses are able not only to hold the front line but in some areas to regain lost territory.
Although fighting continues, the overall situation indicates a transition to a prolonged positional war where neither side holds a decisive advantage. CSIS experts emphasize that without new resources or tactical changes, Russia will find it difficult to regain the initiative.
