Russian army failed to achieve any of its goals during 500 days of war against Ukraine - ISW

The Washington-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said this in a new Russian offensive campaign assessment, Ukrinform reports.

"Five hundred days ago Russia launched an unprovoked war of conquest against Ukraine. The Russian military intended to take Kyiv within three days but failed to accomplish any of its intended objectives in Ukraine," ISW analysts said.

According to analysts, Ukrainian forces have secured and retained the initiative and are conducting counteroffensive operations along most of the frontline with Russian forces focused almost entirely on trying to hold on to the Ukrainian lands they still occupy.

"With Western assistance, Ukraine has ensured its independence but faces the critical task of liberating the strategically vital territory still under Russian control," the ISW report said.

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched an unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine.