Russia's spring offensive in Ukraine expected to focus on 'Fortress Belt' in Donetsk region

Russia's spring offensive in Ukraine is expected to focus on the so-called "Fortress Belt" ​of heavily defended cities in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, which Moscow has repeatedly demanded Kyiv relinquish in return for peace. Speaking on FRANCE 24, retired Vice Admiral of the US Navy Robert B Murrett, says that the region is "a veritable highway for…

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• Russia's spring offensive in Ukraine is expected to focus on the so-called "Fortress Belt" ​of heavily defended cities in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, which Moscow has repeatedly demanded Kyiv…
• Speaking on FRANCE 24, retired Vice Admiral of the US Navy Robert B Murrett, says that the region is "a veritable highway for any army that wanted to conduct operations further into Ukraine and…

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• linquish in return for peace. Speaking on FRANCE 24, retired Vice Admiral of the US Navy Robert B Murrett, says that the region is "a veritable highway for any army that wanted to conduct operations further into…
• Full context often emerges as officials, markets, or courts add updates.

Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• Russia's spring offensive in Ukraine is expected to focus on the so-called "Fortress Belt" ​of heavily defended cities in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, which Moscow has repeatedly demanded Kyiv…
• Speaking on FRANCE 24, retired Vice Admiral of the US Navy Robert B Murrett, says that the region is "a veritable highway for any army that wanted to conduct operations further into Ukraine and…