Part 7/10:
One of the touted benefits of the offensive was its potential diversion of Russian troops from key sectors, allowing Ukraine to fortify defenses in areas such as Sumi and keeping the Russians occupied. However, assessments question the actual strategic gains versus the operational risks and losses incurred.
What complicates matters even further is the psychological aspect of the offensive, which served to galvanize support within Ukraine and portray strength to Western allies. The initial successes, particularly in August, engendered a sense of optimism and national pride. Yet as the Russian counteractions intensified, the moral victories felt overshadowed.