Russia advances in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions: ISW assesses situation at frontline

This was reported by the Institute for the Study of War.

It is noted that on April 7, the Russian occupation forces carried out ground attacks near Bohdanivka, Novyi Microraion, near Ivanivske, Klishchiivka and Andriivka.

At the same time, the Russian army has recently advanced northwest of Avdiivka. Geolocation footage published on May 7 showed that Russia was making progress along the railroad line west of Ocheretyne (northwest of Avdiivka).

Instead, the propagandists claimed that the occupation forces were also advancing northwest of Avdiivka and southwest of Ocheretyne and to the southern outskirts of the settlement. Another Russian milblogger said that Russia had advanced 1.5 km deep to a windbreak along the Novobakhmutivka-Berdychi line. However, ISW has found no confirmation of these Russian claims.

In addition, Russian forces recently made a confirmed advance in western Zaporizhia Oblast. Geolocated footage published on May 7 shows that Russian forces advanced along Skidhna Street to new positions in southeastern Robotyne. One Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces also advanced in northwestern Robotyne, although ISW has not yet observed visual confirmation of Russian troops operating in this area.

• On May 7, Vladyslav Selezniov, a military expert, colonel of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and spokesman for the AFU General Staff (2014-2017), noted that Russia is currently laying the groundwork for attacks on the eastern front.