The Russian forces, facing significant losses and depletion of Soviet supplies, have notably altered their tactics in combat operations across key front lines, including the Kurakhove direction.
According to analysts from the Institute for the Study of War, the Russian army has significantly reduced its use of armored vehicles in offensive operations, a change resulting from substantial equipment losses in October and November 2024.
In the last week of December and early January, the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) reported a shift in strategy from the adversary. Russian troops are now actively employing infantry units for assaults, using armored vehicles primarily for fire support.
The AFU noted that this decision was a response to the losses of armored equipment, compelling Russian forces to decrease their reliance on heavy machinery and focus on infantry mobility. It has also been reported that Russians have started utilizing alternative means of transportation to move their troops into combat zones.
Reports frequently mention the use of electric scooters, motorcycles, and ATVs, indicating an effort to compensate for the shortage of armored vehicles and enhance troop mobility.
According to a representative from a Ukrainian brigade operating in the Kurakhove direction, Russian forces continue to employ tactics involving infantry, while the use of armored vehicles remains limited.
Experts note that this trend indicates the depletion of Russian military resources, which undermines their ability to sustain large-scale offensives and hold previously captured positions.