Russian forces have withdrawn from key eastern towns, as a rapid Ukrainian counter-attack makes further gains. Ukraine launched its counter-offensive in the east earlier this week, while international attention was focused on an anticipated advance near the southern city of Kherson. The advances will be used as a sign that Ukraine’s army can take back Russian-occupied territory, while the country continues to ask for military support from the West. But Russian forces fighting on the southern front are said to have dug into defensive positions, and Ukraine’s troops have faced heavy resistance since the offensive began. Is Russia likely to lose at the end ?

