war
Russia makes no frontline gains in March as drone attacks and diplomatic strains intensify
Analysis shows Russia made no frontline gains in March for the first time in over two years while Ukraine reclaimed territory; the plateau coincides with intense Russian drone attacks, Ukrainian strikes inside Russia, and diplomatic tensions that could affect Western support.
Apr 3rd 2026 · Ukraine
Insights
- ISW and AFP analysis found Russia made no frontline gains in March and Ukrainian forces recaptured about 9 sq km.
- ISW says the Russian slowdown reflects Ukrainian counteroffensives and limits on Russian battlefield communications after a ban on Starlink and moves to restrict Telegram.
- Russian forces maintained heavy drone strikes on Kharkiv and other areas, causing civilian injuries, fires and property damage.
- Ukraine rejects Russian claims of full control in Luhansk and says it struck five strategic Russian plants and 10 oil refineries in March.
- Kyiv is preparing for next winter, protecting 245 key facilities and adding cogeneration and resilience measures.
- Russia issued a travel advisory warning citizens against countries with US extradition treaties over alleged legal risks.
- US focus on the Middle East and Donald Trump’s threat to consider leaving NATO have prompted European leaders to warn about the impact on support for Ukraine.
Sources
- Russia's military campaign in Ukraine stalls for first time in more than two years www.france24.com
- Russia made no territorial gains in Ukraine in March, analysis shows www.japantimes.co.jp
- Ukraine-Russia war latest: Putin’s territorial gains in Ukraine stall for the first time in over two years www.independent.co.uk
- Huge blow for Putin as Russia fails to make any March gains in Ukraine www.independent.co.uk
- Russia launches relentless drone, missile strikes on Ukraine www.dailysabah.com
- El ritmo de avance ruso en la guerra disminuye: no registró casi ningún avance territorial en Ucrania durante el mes de marzo www.elmundo.es