Despite overall territorial losses in Ukraine over recent months, Russian forces are making slow, incremental gains in the strategically important Donetsk region. The focus of the offensive is directed towards the key cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. Russian troops currently hold portions of Kostiantynivka, a town that previously hindered their advance, and are attempting to encircle it. Recent efforts have included renewed attempts to launch a pincer movement targeting Sloviansk. While Russia continues to press in Donetsk, its broader military performance has been characterized by a net loss of territory elsewhere in Ukraine. The situation in Kostiantynivka remains a focal point of the fighting.