Ukraine: The Latest Exclusive: Ukraine prepared to cede territory held by Russia & 'breach' sparks alarm on eastern front
Aug 12, 2025
James Kilner, a former Russia Correspondent at The Telegraph and expert in the Caucasus, provides critical insights into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He discusses recent Russian military advances in the Donbass and speculates whether this is a tactic for upcoming talks or a sign of Ukraine's vulnerabilities. The conversation touches on President Zelensky's potential softening stance on territorial concessions while examining the role of Russian propaganda and military tactics, adding depth to the complexities of the situation.
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Donbass Moves Risk Strategic Encirclement
- Russia has made incremental, high-cost advances around Pokrosp and Konstantinivka that risk encircling key towns.
- If exploited, these moves could threaten the Donbass 'fortress belt' and Ukrainian logistics north to Kramatorsk.
Unknowns Decide If Penetration Becomes Breakthrough
- Key unknowns include Russian force size, composition and ability to exploit gains, plus Ukraine's counterattack capacity.
- These unknowns determine whether recent penetrations remain local or become operational breakthroughs.
Drone-Guided Small Teams Erode Coherent Frontlines
- Open-source analysis suggests Russia uses small, drone-guided rifle teams to infiltrate and accumulate positions rather than large conventional thrusts.
- That method creates a fuzzy frontline and demands improved reconnaissance and quick-reaction forces to counter it.