"Assessing Russia's Offensive Campaign: July 28, 2023"

Ukrainian forces conducted counteroffensive operations in multiple sectors, making advances near Bakhmut, while Russian naval posturing in the Black Sea aims to impose a de facto blockade on Ukrainian ports. Russian President Putin reassured African partner states during the Russia-Africa Summit, but the Kremlin shows little interest in an unspecific peace plan proposed by African heads of state. Russian authorities may be concerned about public opinion on the war ahead of upcoming elections. The first batch of refurbished US Abrams tanks is expected to arrive in Ukraine in September. Russian forces conducted offensive operations and made advances in certain areas, while Ukrainian forces continued counteroffensive operations. The Russian Federation Council approved measures to equip the Russian National Guard and increase the conscription age range. Ukrainian teenagers are being deported to Russia under the guise of summer camp programs.