Russian forces have sustained localized pressure in the Dobropillya direction of Donetsk Oblast, where Novyi Donbas lies, yet achieved only marginal advances through October and early November 2026 despite committing substantial manpower and equipment. Ukrainian counteroffensives, notably Operation Vivaldi in the Lyman sector, disrupted Russian attempts to encircle the Fortress Belt cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, slowing overall momentum across Donbas. Ukrainian strikes on Russian ammunition depots and troop concentrations have further constrained offensive tempo. Moscow continues to prioritize full control of remaining Donetsk territory, while Kyiv has stabilized lines and regained limited ground in contested sectors this year. Scheduled diplomatic contacts in November could influence resource allocation but have not altered battlefield conditions.