Ukraine faces critical autumn: Donbas pressure, Russian bombardment, AFU leadership turnover

The Kyiv Independent's monthly briefing highlights converging pressures on Ukraine: Russian forces are nearing full control of Donbas settlements, aerial bombardment continues, and rapid turnover at the top of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) under new commander Drapatyi creates an uncertain command picture. The briefing signals a potentially decisive period for the conflict, with Russian advances appearing closer than ever to completing the Donbas objective.