Russian forces continue to advance on the battlefield in Ukraine, raising concerns about whether an aid package recently passed by Congress will be able to halt Moscow's momentum in time. Maps shared by the X account War Mapper reveal the latest gains made by Russian forces in the Donetsk region over the past 10 days.

One map highlights how Russian forces breached the Ukrainian line at Ocheretyne, northwest of the hard-fought town of Avdiivka, which was captured by Moscow in February. War Mapper reports that the Russian forces have taken control of "most of the settlement" and have also advanced in Semenivka and Berdychi. They have also captured Novomykhailivka, located south of Marinka. However, Ukrainian gains have been observed between Ivanivkse, Klishchiivka, and east of Terny.

Of particular concern is the town of Chasiv Yar, which Kyiv warns that Russian President Vladimir Putin seeks to capture before the May 9 Victory Day commemorations. War Mapper confirms that Russia has secured more territory to the east of Chasiv Yar.

Analysts are questioning whether the $61 billion bill passed by Congress, aimed at providing much-needed ammunition and equipment to Ukraine, has been delayed too long. Despite welcoming the bill, military analyst Rob Lee suggests that while the assistance may help Ukraine fight in 2024 and beyond, Russia will likely make further gains this year. Lee emphasizes that the aid package does not solve all of Ukraine's issues and expresses concerns about the delays in aid mobilization.

Eugene Rumer, director of the U.S. think tank's Russia and Eurasia program at Carnegie Endowment for World Peace, highlights that Ukraine has limited options, even with the latest aid package. He asserts that the U.S. deal is likely the last package of its magnitude, regardless of the outcome of the next U.S. presidential election. Rumer suggests that at the upcoming NATO summit in Washington, the focus should be on implementing commitments to defend against the Russian aggression.

However, the passing of the $61 billion aid package has brought some optimism to Ukraine and its supporters. Marianna Tretiak, president of the American Coalition for Ukraine, expresses confidence that the aid will be dispersed quickly by the local Ukrainian military administration. Tretiak highlights the dire situation on the front lines, with reports of rationing being applied to civilian defense systems leading to increased damage to residential areas and casualties among the civilian population.

As the situation in Ukraine intensifies, the challenge of countering Russia's advances remains. The aid package offers a glimmer of hope, but the timetable for its delivery and its overall impact on the conflict remain uncertain.