The losses Ukraine inflicted on the Russian forces during the Battle for the Donbas in the spring and early summer were a major factor in Ukraine’s victories in Kherson and Kharkiv.
Attrition made maneuver warfare successful. The level of outside assistance and how smoothly Russia integrates its mobilized troops will have a significant impact on the war’s outcome in 2023. The achievements made by Russia in the Donbas from April to July turned out to be a symbolic victory, achieving tactical gains at the expense of long-term goals. While Ukraine pursued a defense-in-depth posture, Russia used vital men and artillery ammo. By September, NATO military supply had significantly decreased Russia’s crucial advantage in artillery, and Moscow lacked the necessary forces and ammunition to maintain its occupation of the land, which created the ideal conditions for Ukraine’s successful offensives.
Source: https://www.fpri.org/article/2022/12/how-the-battle-for-the-donbas-shaped-ukraines-success/
