Researchers: Russian Army's Advance in Ukraine Among Slowest in Last Century's Wars
Russia is losing initiative on the battlefield, and the pace of its troops' advance in Ukraine is among the slowest in wars of the past century, according to CSIS researchers.
Russia continues to lose battlefield initiative, analysts at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) have concluded. Their latest report highlights that the pace of Russian military advances in Ukraine is among the lowest compared to all major wars of the last hundred years. This finding underscores the difficulties Moscow faces in achieving decisive territorial gains.
The study notes that the rate at which Russian forces expand their controlled area is significantly slower than in historical conflicts. The loss of initiative means Russia is increasingly unable to dictate the course of events on the front lines. CSIS researchers emphasize that this slow progress is typical of attrition warfare, where both sides fight for every meter.
While the report does not provide specific figures on advance rates, it contextualizes the current war within a broader historical framework. The analysis suggests that Russia's original goal of a rapid takeover of Ukraine has failed, replaced by a grinding conflict. The slow advance also reflects logistical challenges, high casualties, and strong Ukrainian resistance, as observed by other Western analysts.
CSIS's comparative historical perspective adds weight to the assessment that Russia's military performance in Ukraine is unusually poor by 20th and 21st century standards. The researchers conclude that unless there is a major shift in tactics or resources, the current tempo of operations is unlikely to lead to a quick resolution.
