How Russia’s 'thousand cuts' tactic is straining Ukraine’s frontline forces
France 24 Europe
by Sébastian SEIBTFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
After four years of stalemate in Ukraine's conflict, Russia has turned to a new and unconventional tactic known as the "thousand cuts." This approach involves small units of two or three soldiers exploiting weaknesses in Ukrainian defenses to create a slow, draining effect rather than seeking a decisive victory. By infiltrating key areas like Kupiansk and Pokrovsk, these micro-units have managed to advance deeper into Ukrainian territory, testing defenses and exhausting resources over time. This method reflects a shift in Russian military strategy away from dramatic breakthroughs toward a more persistent, low-profile approach.
The "thousand cuts" tactic is rooted in Soviet-era stealth techniques adapted to modern warfare. Small units use thermal sheeting or tents to avoid detection, creeping close to Ukrainian forces to assess their positions and strength. Even if these operations result in Russian casualties, Moscow can better absorb the losses compared to Ukraine's stretched defenses. The goal is not necessarily territorial gains but rather attrition—draining Ukrainian resources and forcing constant reactions from its military.
This strategy also serves political ends for Russia. By creating the illusion of control through symbolic gestures like raising flags in villages, Russia aims to extend the conflict in its favor. While Ukraine eventually removes these symbols, the psychological impact and resource drain continue. The tactic aligns with Russia's broader war of attrition, prolonging the conflict to achieve a decisive victory on its terms while keeping global attention focused on its incremental gains.
For readers interested in global affairs, this shift highlights how prolonged warfare evolves when traditional tactics fail. It underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in modern conflicts and raises questions about the sustainability of Ukraine's defenses under constant pressure. As peace negotiations falter, Russia's "thousand cuts" approach ensures it remains a dominant force in Eastern Europe, shaping the region's future through persistence rather than dramatic action.
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Originally published on France 24 Europe on 2/24/2026