Ukraine–Russia Conflict Update August 2025: Frontlines, Water Crisis & Diplomacy

1. Military Frontlines & Territorial Developments

Russia continues its offensive in eastern Ukraine. Its forces claim capture of two more villages—Sredneye and Kleban-Byk—in Donetsk region, advancing toward strategic transport hubs like Kramatorsk. Ukraine counters, stating it has recaptured Zeleny Gai and halted further advances.

Notable clashes are ongoing near Sumy Oblast, with significant Russian incursions since early 2025. These operations, such as the Sumy offensive, have resulted in the evacuation of tens of thousands of civilians and intense fighting at the border .

2. Humanitarian Challenges: Water Crisis in Donetsk

In the Russian-held parts of Donetsk, severe water shortages have forced residents to rely on tanker deliveries due to failing infrastructure and frontline disruptions. The crisis is so severe the Russian-installed head, Denis Pushilin, insists that only full Russian control of the 135 km Siverskyi Donets–Donbas canal can resolve it. Ukraine attributes the issue to war-related damage amid contested zones .

3. Economic & Infrastructure Strain

Ukrainian drone strikes targeting critical Russian infrastructure—especially in oil and fuel sectors—have disrupted about 13% of Russia’s refining capacity. This has contributed to a 45% surge in fuel prices, compounded by inflation (~ 9%), high interest rates, sluggish GDP growth, and export bans .

4. Diplomatic Moves & Peace Efforts

U.S. Special Envoy Gen. Keith Kellogg was recently in Kyiv, earning praise from locals and Zelenskyy for his role in calming tensions. Discussions focused on pushing Russia toward peace talks, including a possible meeting with Putin.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy continues urging a global push—particularly from Global South nations—for broader support and international pressure on Russia . However, skepticism remains: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warns that potential Ukrainian concessions in peace deals could be a “trap”

by Putin