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Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 30, 2026

ISW · Institute for the Study of War ·

Executive Summary

Ukrainian forces are intensifying long-range strikes against Russian airfields, drone launch sites, and oil refineries, degrading Russian strike and air defense capabilities. These strikes, alongside ground operations in Kupyansk and Slovyansk, aim to impose significant financial and operational costs on Russia and restore tactical maneuverability. Russia is preparing to increase strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure for the upcoming winter.

Why It Matters

This document provides a critical daily update on the evolving military situation in the Russia-Ukraine war, detailing Ukrainian offensive actions and Russian responses, which is essential for understanding current battlefield dynamics and strategic shifts.

Key Takeaways

  • Ukrainian forces are conducting an intensified long-range strike campaign against Russian military infrastructure, including airfields and oil refineries.
  • Ukrainian ground forces are making tactical advances in areas like Kupyansk and Slovyansk, often preceded by suppression of Russian drone capabilities.
  • Russia is preparing to escalate strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure during the winter, while Ukrainian strikes are impacting Russian logistics and economy.

Strategic Relevance

The report highlights Ukraine's strategy of degrading Russian military and economic capabilities through long-range strikes and localized ground offensives, while Russia prepares for a winter campaign against Ukrainian energy infrastructure. This indicates a shift towards attritional warfare and strategic targeting of critical assets.

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Key Entities

UkraineRussiaYeysk AirfieldMillerovo AirfieldKupyanskSlovyanskKirishi Oil RefineryOzonWildberriesSberbankPantsir-S1Sopka-2 radar system

Best For

Defense AnalystsGeopolitical StrategistsMilitary IntelligencePolicy Makers

Related Themes

Military OperationsAsymmetric WarfareLogistics WarfareAir DefenseDrone WarfareEconomic Warfare

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