Ukraine's Operation Vivaldi collapses Russian pincer in Donbas, ISW reports

Ukraine's counter-offensive on the Lyman axis has collapsed the northern arm of a Russian pincer movement aimed at encircling Ukrainian-held Donetsk, liberating up to 176 square kilometers and forcing Russian units onto the defensive, according to ISW. The operation marks a significant reversal of Russian offensive momentum in the Donbas, though the extent of territorial control and Russian casualties remains unverified. This development shifts the tactical initiative to Ukraine and could alter the trajectory of the conflict in the region.