The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) points out that the Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is paying unusually much attention to the capture of Velyka Novosilka, which may indicate that the Russian Federation wants to shape the West's perception of the situation on the battlefield and weaken international support for Ukraine. In addition, the likely capture of Velyka Novosilka and the redeployment of Russian units will indicate the direction of the Russian offensive in the spring and summer.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is attempting to convince US President Donald Trump to abandon his plans to lower global oil prices. If this happens, Putin will be unable to finance his war against Ukraine, reports the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). The report reminded of US President Donald Trump's statement that oil prices are currently high enough for Russia to continue its military actions in Ukraine and his call for OPEC to reduce the price of oil.