A new tactical situation is unfolding in the active combat zone in the Donetsk region. The Russian Federation has put forward a demand for a pause in the fighting in Konstantynivka. According to Ukrainian military sources, the goal of this initiative is not humanitarian relief, but an attempt to assess the situation within the city.
Konstantynivka as a "Gray Zone"
Alexander Anikolchuk, head of unmanned systems of the 40th Separate Brigade of Reconnaissance and Material-Technical Support (OBMRP), commented on the current situation during a televised marathon. According to him, Konstantynivka has now turned into one large "gray zone".
The expert explained that large-scale urban combat has created a situation where the troops of opposing sides are intermingled. Under such conditions, a thorough clearance is necessary, checking every house, floor, and basement. This is why, according to the Ukrainian military, the Russian side is interested in a ceasefire for at least six hours. They need this time to understand where the actual line of contact is and to determine the location of their own and enemy units.
A Pretext for Negotiations
Moscow's initiative for a temporary ceasefire was voiced earlier. On July 4, the Russian Ministry of Defense proposed that Ukraine stop shelling Konstantynivka on July 6. The official reason given was the desire to transfer the bodies of fallen soldiers.
However, this move came against the backdrop of loud statements from Russian leadership. The day before, Vladimir Putin claimed a complete capture of Konstantynivka. These words were promptly refuted by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the morning of July 4. Furthermore, the DeepState monitoring map does not confirm information about Russian control of the city.
Diplomatic Deadlock
In response to the statement about the "capture" of the city, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed a meeting with Vladimir Putin directly in Konstantynivka to personally verify the reality of the situation. However, the Kremlin rejected this proposal, insisting that negotiations should take place in Moscow.
