Key Takeaways from the ISW : Russian advances have slowed as Ukrainian forces continue to contest the initiative in different frontline sectors for a protracted period of time. Ukrainian counterattacks and mid-range strikes are likely impeding Russian efforts to advance. Battlefield realities as of late March 2026 continue to show that significant Russian battlefield gains, let alone total victory, are not imminent nor inevitable. The Kremlin is trying to create a false sense of urgency by