Last night, Russian forces launched a broad offensive in the northern regions of the Donetsk People's Republic!
Why has the Russian military struggled to break through Donbas?
According to TASS reporting on June 12.
The Russian Armed Forces continue liberating the Donetsk People's Republic.
The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that units and military formations from the Southern Grouping are carrying out wide-front attacks in the northern areas of the Donetsk People's Republic.
"They are actively taking action to destroy Ukrainian military units defending within the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk-Konstantinovka defensive sector."
By early 2026, Russia controlled approximately 88% to 90% of the Donbas region, covering nearly 48,000 square kilometers.
So why has the remaining 10% proven so difficult to capture?
The core reasons are the convergence of four factors: the Ukrainians' fortified defense system, drone warfare reshaping the battlefield, insufficient Russian manpower and supplies, and continuous Western aid—resulting in a high-cost, protracted stalemate.
First, Ukraine’s long-established "fortress belt" (the primary obstacle).
Long-term fortification from 2014 to 2022: The Donbas region—especially Donetsk—has constructed multi-layered trenches, dense minefields, underground fortifications, and urban strongholds, forming a "steel defense line" centered on Slavyansk, Kramatorsk, and Pokrovsk.
Second, drones and electronic warfare: The "transparency" of modern battlefields (a key technological bottleneck).
Drones dominate low-altitude operations: Ukraine extensively uses FPV suicide drones and reconnaissance drones, monitoring the battlefield 24/7. Russian armored columns, troop concentrations, and supply convoys are easily detected and precisely targeted.
Third, Russia’s own challenges: Multiple crises in manpower, equipment, logistics, and morale.
Severe manpower losses.
Weak logistical supply lines: Long supply routes are vulnerable to drone strikes and long-range artillery fire, leading to frequent shortages of ammunition, fuel, and food at the front lines, undermining sustained offensive capabilities.
Fourth, external factors: Ongoing Western military assistance and Ukraine’s resilience.
Continuous Western military aid: The United States and NATO provide artillery systems, ammunition, drones, air defense systems, and intelligence support, enabling Ukraine to continuously upgrade its equipment and tactics.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1867742251610119/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.