Russia is preparing for a broad offensive in 2026: from Lyman to Pokrovsk.

According to ТСН: The military-political leadership of Russia plans to continue its offensive in the war against Ukraine throughout 2026. The enemy forces intend to advance along a wide front – from Lyman in the north to Pokrovsk in the south.

War Scenario

This information was announced by security projects expert Pavlo Lakiychuk during a broadcast on 'Ukrainian Radio'. He noted that the public statements of the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin do not indicate a preparation for peace; on the contrary, they suggest plans to continue aggression.

'Putin says that if the objectives of the so-called 'SVO' are achieved by some political-diplomatic means, meaning Ukraine capitulates, it will be a 'pleasant bonus' to the military campaign.'

Enemy Strategies

Lakiychuk believes that the opponent will try to use its numerical superiority to achieve its goals. He explained that the understaffing of Ukrainian units is a significant disadvantage that the Russians are trying to exploit.

According to him, given the numerical advantage, the enemy may focus its efforts on key attack directions while stretching Ukrainian forces and creating tension along the entire front line.

Main Direction of Strikes

Lakiychuk pointed out that the northwestern part of Donbas will likely become the main direction of strikes from the enemy. He reminded that in the summer, the occupiers already tried to carry out a similar operation to test their strength by attacking from the north and south.

Against the backdrop of these events, American studies professor Scott Lucas believes that Russia is ramping up its attacks on the front and shelling Ukrainian cities, trying to break Kyiv's resistance before an economic collapse within Russia itself.

Thus, the military situation remains tense, and the prospect of further aggression from Russia raises concerns in the international community. The threatening strategy of the enemy may require Ukraine to adopt new approaches to countering aggression, which in turn will necessitate not only military but also diplomatic efforts.