ISW: Winter weather to slow down fighting in Ukraine

Ukrainian and Russian forces are continuing combat operations in eastern and southern Ukraine, although the rainy weather will likely continue to slow the pace of combat operations until winter conditions fully set in.

A Russian military blogger claimed that Ukrainian forces continue to defend against a strong group of Russian forces attacking near Avdiivka and that Ukrainian forces maintain the initiative in southern Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

He added that it is premature to declare any Russian victories to avoid creating any false impressions about the situation on the battlefield.

Another Russian military blogger observed that poor weather is impeding the use of armoured vehicles in western Zaporizhia Oblast but that Ukrainian forces are still attacking Russian positions with infantry units.

On November 18, the United Kingdon (UK) Ministry of Defence (MoD) assessed that neither side has achieved any substantial progress in the Kupiansk and Avdiivka directions, or in the east (left) bank Kherson Oblast — where the most intense battles are ongoing.

The UK MoD added that there are fewer immediate prospects of major changes on the frontlines as colder winter weather begins to set in.

Freezing weather conditions during the winter will likely prompt the resumption of more active combat operations, and ongoing rainy weather is unlikely to halt Ukrainian or Russian attacks.