Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, July 5, 2026

The July 5, 2026 assessment from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) describes a widening Russian information campaign amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. ISW says the Kremlin appears to be highlighting the claimed Russian seizure of Kostyantynivka to the Trump administration and broader Western audiences. It cites U.S. President Donald Trump speaking by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 4, with Kremlin aide Yuriy Ushakov stating the talks covered an upcoming NATO summit, the war, and military-political and economic issues. ISW claims Russian forces have infiltrated into, but not seized, Kostyantynivka, despite statements by Putin and Dmitry Medvedev. The report adds that officials commonly amplify tactical gains as part of cognitive warfare aimed at pressuring Ukraine and partners toward negotiations.