In response to Russia's renewed offensive in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a strategic shift from counteroffensive to defensive measures. As Russian attacks escalate, Ukraine is now focusing on fortifying its positions, particularly in the Donetsk region and other targeted areas, with the aim of protecting all fronts and the country's borders.

According to a source from the President's Office, Kyiv is analyzing the progress of the war thus far and reassessing its approach to ensure the utmost protection. The city of Avdiivka has become a primary target for the recent wave of Russian assaults, along with the devastated city of Marinka in the Donetsk region.

In a video address, President Zelensky stated that he held a meeting with Ukrainian generals in Zaporizhzhia to discuss enhanced fortifications across the nation, giving special attention to areas in the Donetsk region. While some exceptions exist, such as a contested bridgehead in the Kherson region, Kyiv is primarily focused on fortifying its positions as winter sets in, awaiting the supply of weapons and ammunition from Western allies.

Analysts believe that Ukraine has achieved incremental gains on the battlefield, albeit at a tremendous human cost, as its troops continue to repel Russian attacks. These assaults are not limited to the Donetsk region alone but have extended to other areas like Kharkiv, particularly along the Kupyansk-Lyman defensive line, as well as the Zaporizhzhia region along the Donetsk border.

President Zelensky emphasized the need to reinforce defenses in various regions, including Kharkiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Sumy, Rivne, Volyn, Chernihiv, and the Kyiv region. The latter experienced a record-breaking 74 out of 75 drones aimed at the capital on November 24, demonstrating the urgency to bolster security measures.

Despite concerns, the President's Office does not anticipate a large-scale ground assault similar to the one witnessed in February 2022, when Russian troops attempted to invade Kyiv from the north but were successfully repelled by Ukrainian forces.

As Ukraine adjusts its strategy in the face of intensified Russian attacks, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely. With the focus now on fortifying positions and defending key areas, the nation seeks to secure its borders and protect its people from further aggression.