Ukraine Gains Ground in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Constraining Russian Offensives

Ukrainian forces are making continued advances in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, impacting Russian offensive capabilities and potentially threatening operations in the Hulyaipole direction. Recent counterattacks are forcing Russia to redeploy forces and means from other areas of the frontline, potentially jeopardizing the anticipated Russian Spring-Summer 2026 offensive.

Ukrainian Advances and Russian Response

Ukrainian forces have liberated more than 400 square kilometers in the Oleksandrivka and Hulyaipole directions since late January 2026, through two separate drives . Recent tactical penetrations, within the past week (since approximately March 9), include advances into Sichneve, reaching the eastern outskirts of Voskresenska, progressing toward Novoivanivka, entering and advancing into southeastern Novomykolaivka, and seizing Rybne . Ukrainian forces have also advanced to within two kilometers of the Hulyaipole-Velyka Novosilka road, disrupting Russian logistics .

In response, Russian forces in the Oleksandrivka direction have shifted to an active defense to constrain Ukrainian advances . Elements of the Russian 39th Motorized Rifle Brigade are likely to withdraw to the Voskresenka-Maliivka line to defend against counterattacks .

Redeployment of Russian Forces

Ukrainian counterattacks are compelling Russia to redeploy forces from other frontline areas and potentially from operational reserves. Elements of the 40th Naval Infantry Brigade and 55th Naval Infantry Division were redeployed from the Dobropillya tactical area to the Hulyaipole direction as of late February 2026 . Elements of the 40th Naval Infantry Brigade and 120th Naval Infantry Division have been moved to the 36th CAA’s area of responsibility in the Oleksandrivka direction . There are indications that elements of the 69th Separate Cover Brigade and 38th Motorized Rifle Brigade may be pulled from operational reserve to defend in the Oleksandrivka direction .

Russian Political Stance Remains Firm

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov continues to reject any negotiated settlement that does not fully meet Russia’s demands, including territorial concessions . Lavrov views the current Ukrainian government as the root cause of the conflict and considers potential European peacekeeping troops as occupying forces .

Restrictions on Telegram Use by Russian Forces

The Russian Ministry of Defense has reportedly issued orders prohibiting Russian soldiers from using Telegram, threatening reassignment to assault units for non-compliance . This move is facing criticism from Russian milbloggers, who argue it could negatively impact military operations . The Kremlin is also throttling Telegram domestically, potentially setting conditions for a complete block .

Key Takeaways

• Continued Ukrainian advances in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast are likely constraining Russian offensive operations.
• Ukrainian counterattacks are forcing Russia to redeploy forces.
• Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov remains steadfast in his demands.
• The Russian Ministry of Defense is restricting Telegram use.
• The Kremlin continues to throttle Telegram domestically.

Recent Operations

Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Kostyantynivka-Druzhkivka tactical area, near Pokrovsk, and near Oleksandrivka. Russian forces recently advanced in the Kostyantynivka-Druzhkivka tactical area. Ukrainian forces struck Russian oil and defense industrial infrastructure. Russian forces launched 211 drones against Ukraine, impacting Odesa, Mykolaiv, and Kharkiv oblasts.