Ukrainian Forces Advance in Four Frontline Areas, ISW Reports
Ukrainian troops advanced near Kupyansk, Chasiv Yar, and two areas in Dnipropetrovsk region, according to ISW. Russian forces made limited gains near Kostyantynivka and Dobropillya but failed in northern Kharkiv. Ukrainian counterattacks continue in other sectors.
The Institute for the Study of War based its assessment on geolocated combat footage published Sept. 22, showing Ukrainian troops operating west of Kalynove and north of Kupyansk. A Russian military source acknowledged Ukrainian activity near Kalynove and Kindrashivka, suggesting Kyiv's forces may be improving flanking positions around the city.
In the Chasiv Yar sector, Ukrainian units pushed into eastern and central Molocharka and east of Stinka, while striking Russian positions after infiltration attempts. Counterattacks also continued southeast of Lyman, with Ukrainian forces reportedly advancing toward Yampil and the Zherebets River along the T-05-13 road, while holding ground near Orikhiv in Zaporizhzhia.
These incremental territorial shifts may signal a broader pattern of attritional warfare, where neither side achieves decisive breakthroughs but local gains shape morale and negotiating positions. Civilians in frontline settlements face continued displacement risk, while sustained fighting near Kupyansk and Chasiv Yar could disrupt supply routes and humanitarian access. The ISW's tracking of small advances may also influence international perceptions of Ukrainian momentum, potentially affecting Western aid discussions and public support for continued military assistance.