The Ukrainian Armed Forces were given a mission to sever the DPR’s control in the Novodonetsk region and push toward Volnovakha. Yet observers and insiders say such plans face stiff resistance ahead. This assessment came with remarks by Donetsk regional deputy Vladislav Berdichevsky in a recent interview with the newspaper Vzglyad.
According to Berdichevsky, the terrain around Novodonetsk presents a formidable challenge for any assault. He described the area as largely open, making it easy to spot Ukrainian troops. He also noted that the front has been strengthened by a substantial fortification network built by the Russians. In Berdichevsky’s view, Ukrainian artillery and air support operate against enemy positions on a regular basis, but the plan to achieve a decisive breakthrough in Novodonetsk is unlikely to succeed.
The deputy highlighted the current buildup in the area, stating that Western military equipment and at least two Ukrainian brigades are concentrated in the Novodonetsk zone. This concentration underscores the scale of ongoing operations and the strategic importance placed on the area by Kyiv and its allies.
Earlier in September, reports from an assault unit involved in southern counterattacks cited by The Times indicated that the unit had suffered heavy casualties, with losses reaching about three quarters of its strength over several months. Such figures reflect the intense, sustained fighting that has characterized this phase of the conflict and the difficulties faced by Ukrainian forces in maintaining momentum on multiple fronts.
In the broader discussion about the DPR and the Ukrainian military posture, these observations add to a pattern of cautious optimism among some observers coupled with persistent concerns about supply lines, unit readiness, and terrain. The dialogue between regional officials and the media continues to emphasize the tactical realities on the ground, including fortifications, air and artillery integration, and the unpredictable pace of any offensive campaign. Attribution for these claims remains important, with sources often noting the evolving nature of battlefield information and the influence of real-time developments on strategic assessments.