The Armed Forces of Ukraine counterattack near Pokrovsk and Toretsk – media

With the onset of spring, Ukrainian forces have stepped up their activity, launching a series of counterattacks and reclaiming small portions of lost territory in the east of the country, BBC reports.

On most fronts, the advancement of russian troops has been minimal compared to the autumn-winter campaign. The American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) stated in its March 5 report that it found no confirmed russian army gains along the entire front line.

Many sources, including russian ones, report an increase in activity by the Armed Forces of Ukraine west and north of Donetsk. In particular, during a series of counterattacks, Ukrainian troops managed to push back russian units advancing on Pokrovsk and restore their positions.

Another counterstrike was launched in Toretsk. The city, which seemed to be completely under russian control, has once again become a battleground—reports indicate a breakthrough by Ukrainian units and firefights nearly in the center of Toretsk.

"The situation near Pokrovsk is extremely difficult; logistics are being disrupted, and there are no reinforcements", - writes the russian military blogger BCH 3, who supplies russian front-line units.

As BBC writes, there may be several reasons for the slowdown in the russian offensive and the increased activity of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. After months of continuous assaults, russian units may be exhausted and in need of rest, reorganization, and regrouping.

Weather conditions could also be a factor—spring brings worsening road conditions, while the improved weather favors drone operations, which Ukrainians are taking advantage of.

Another possible reason is the appointment of General Mykhailo Drapaty as the commander of the operational-strategic grouping of troops "Khortytsia", fighting in the Donetsk oblast, at the end of January. With his leadership, Ukrainian forces have increasingly moved away from a strategy of passive defense, striking back and creating counterthreats.