The strength and responsiveness of Ukrainian defenders, coupled with extremely poor planning, morale and coordination among Russian forces ensured that Russia's initial plan failed. Donations to the Mail Force Ukraine Appeal will be used to help charities and aid organisations providing such essential services. Things have gone better for Russian forces in the South of Ukraine, where the terrain is more open and the ground firmer – allowing Russian forces to manoeuvre more effectively off-road. These units have been largely unable to break contact to reinforce other areas due to heavy attacks by separatist and Russian forces from the east. Russian forces are in a dangerous position, and one that is only likely to deteriorate over the coming weeks without a major pause in the fighting.
