Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, April 2, 2026

(Institute for the Study of War) The Kremlin is setting conditions to imminently tighten restrictions on virtual private networks (VPNs) that allow Russians to bypass the Kremlin’s censorship measures. A law that took effect on April 1 allows the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) to legally access any Russian organization’s databases without additional authorization. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to signal Ukraine’s willingness to offer concessions and to negotiate with Russia. A Russian Northern Fleet Lieutenant General died in a recent plane crash in occupied Crimea. Ukraine’s European allies continue to support Ukraine’s drone innovation efforts. Ukrainian forces recently advanced near Slovyansk and in the Kostyantynivka-Druzhkivka tactical area. Russian forces recently advanced near Slovyansk and Borova. Ukrainian forces continued their long-range strike campaign against Russian oil infrastructure. Russian forces launched 172 drones against Ukraine. – Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, April 2, 2026 | ISW