Michael Kofman, a senior fellow in the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, told the outlet that "Ukrainian forces are stretched thin and face difficult months of fighting ahead, but a major Russian breakthrough is now unlikely." His colleague, Eric Ciaramella, said he believed neither Russia nor Ukraine "possesses the capabilities to significantly change the battle lines" at this point.

The US officials noted that the situation could change in Russia's favor if Putin and his government expand the nation's draft and institute better training for soldiers. They also warned that a change in American policy towards the conflict could have an impact, urging the US to continue supporting Ukraine through the election in November.