Analysis: overstretched Russian forces are trying to concentrate on the east, but Kyiv is doing its best not to let them
Russia-Ukraine war: latest updatesWhat we know on day 33 of Russia’s invasion
Russia’s military may have announced a change of plan at the end of last week to focus on the “liberation of Donbas”, but the apparent decision reflected the reality that Moscow’s initial multi-front invasion plan has failed in the face of dogged resistance from Ukraine.
The advance on Kyiv became bogged down after less than a week, particularly to the north-west of the city. If Ukraine’s declaration that it has retaken the heavily contested town of Irpin’ on Monday is correct, the advance may now even be going into reverse.