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Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 28, 2026

ISW · Institute for the Study of War ·

Executive Summary

Ukrainian forces struck a Russian strategic bomber at Engels-2 Airbase, demonstrating their ability to hit heavily defended targets deep within Russia. Russia faces significant budgetary challenges due to the war, leading to operational problems and potential involuntary reserve call-ups. Russia also continues nuclear saber-rattling and is developing Starlink-jamming EW systems, while Ukraine maintains long-range strike campaigns against Russian infrastructure.

Why It Matters

This document provides a comprehensive daily overview of the ongoing military, economic, and political developments in the Russia-Ukraine war, crucial for understanding the conflict's trajectory and its broader geopolitical implications.

Key Takeaways

  • Ukrainian forces successfully struck a strategic bomber deep inside Russia, showcasing extended strike capabilities.
  • Russia is experiencing significant budgetary strain from the war, impacting its operational capacity and potentially leading to further mobilization.
  • Russia is actively developing and deploying advanced electronic warfare systems to counter Starlink, indicating an evolving technological arms race.

Strategic Relevance

The report highlights Ukraine's expanding long-range strike capabilities, Russia's economic vulnerabilities, and the ongoing technological and information warfare aspects of the conflict, all of which are critical for assessing the strategic balance and future developments.

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Key Entities

UkraineRussiaVolodymyr ZelenskyEngels-2 AirbaseTu-95MS bomberRussian Ministry of DefenseVladimir PutinStarlinkBelarusAlexander LukashenkoAnton SiluanovMikhail Mishustin

Best For

Defense AnalystsPolicy MakersMilitary StrategistsIntelligence Analysts

Related Themes

Military OperationsEconomic WarfareElectronic WarfareLong-Range StrikesForce GenerationGeopolitical Competition

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