Soldiers and civilians fear what comes next as Russia gains momentum in eastern Ukraine
CNNMar 06
Russian Advance Continues in Donetsk
Image copyright: Kostya Liberov/Libkos/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
With Ukrainian troops continuing to suffer ammunition shortages amid stalled US aid, Russian forces have continued to make confirmed gains in the eastern Donetsk region in recent days.
According to the latest analysis from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a US military-affiliated think tank that tracks battlefield progress in the conflict, Russia has made confirmed advances west of Bakhmut, Avdiivka, and Donetsk City in the 24 hours of fighting beginning on March 10.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
While the situation may feel distant to politicians and spectators in the West, that's not the case for those facing the brunt of Russian attacks. Without ammunition and artillery, Ukraine is being left almost defenseless and it's imperative that this situation is rectified urgently if Ukraine is to stand any chance.
Pro-Russia narrative
Ukraine's counteroffensive has failed and Kyiv is now losing. More money for arms will simply bring about more death and destruction. Ukraine would never have fought this war against Russia without US and EU weapons. Now that these weapons are running dry, Ukraine must accept the reality that Russia will never cease its defense of the Donbas or Crimea.
Nerd narrative
There's a 25% chance that Ukraine will join the EU before 2030, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
