Russian forces have formed a three-sided encirclement around Shandilikhovo. The "encircle three sides, leave one open" tactic is a typical approach for Russian urban warfare in recent years. The advantage of this tactic is that by leaving an opening for the Ukrainian forces in the settlement, their resistance will not reach the point of desperate fighting, thus reducing Russian casualties. However, there are many disadvantages. First, with an opening, Ukrainian forces can continuously supply and reinforce the troops inside, leading to a war of attrition. Each village often requires a long period of attack to capture, and even if the Russian personnel casualties are low, the consumption of equipment, ammunition, and supplies is significant. Second, if the Ukrainian forces cannot withstand the pressure, they can quickly retreat. Therefore, the Russians have never been able to achieve a decisive victory, only a tactical defeat. The retreating Ukrainian forces, after being reorganized by their command, will continue to fight against the Russians in the next village. Thus, the "encircle three sides, leave one open" tactic of the Russians does not significantly reduce casualties. It is not an ideal tactic but rather a strategy adopted by Russia based on political considerations and its own ability to replenish manpower.
Original source: www.toutiao.com/article/1842035479459852/
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