Ukraine's frontline face tough odds as they strive to achieve a breakthrough.

The situation in Ukraine is challenging as casualties continue to increase. Some soldiers and observers are starting to wonder if they can break through Russia's strong defensive lines. Kyrylo Potras, a Ukrainian marine who lost his leg in a previous conflict, believes they need more help from the West to succeed. The presence of Russian minefields is a significant obstacle for Ukrainian forces.

However, there are others who disagree and believe the counter-attack is going according to plan. They understand that breaching Russia's defensive lines will not be as fast as last year when Ukraine made significant gains. 

Some see Russia's defenses as weak, some see them as moderately strong, and some see them as very strong.

The first perspective compares Russia's defenses to tin, meaning they are flexible but durable. A medic at a field hospital near Bakhmut explained this viewpoint, emphasizing that Russia had prepared for a long time and had a large number of troops. He believed that Ukraine could push the frontlines back but would struggle to weaken Russia's hold on eastern and southeastern Ukraine. He thought the war would end with a political agreement.

The second perspective compares Russia's defenses to wood, suggesting that they can snap and splinter but won't collapse entirely. This viewpoint became apparent in an area southwest of Bakhmut, where Ukrainian forces were making slow but steady progress. They were finding ways through the minefields, attacking from unexpected angles, and capturing territory. Some soldiers felt optimistic about significant breakthroughs in the coming months but did not expect a complete rout.

The third perspective compares Russia's defenses to glass, believing that they will shatter, allowing Ukraine to seize strategic territory. Western military analysts and generals share this view. They advise patience and argue that Ukraine lacks airpower to quickly destroy Russia's logistical supply lines and command centers. Instead, Ukrainian forces are using ground-based missiles and attacking Russian positions in various places to tie up and weaken the enemy.

There are differing opinions depending on how close people are to the frontlines. Those directly involved in combat operations tend to have a more pessimistic view, while others see the bigger picture. Some believe that the counter-offensive is progressing well and that Ukraine will achieve a breakthrough soon, while others urge patience.

In one field hospital, a Ukrainian doctor named Yevhen expressed the prevailing optimistic mood among soldiers and officials. He believes that they will succeed and that they just need to be patient. The Ukrainian forces are waiting for the breakthrough and remain hopeful despite the challenges they face.