Why is the Russian offensive not going at full speed?

Synopsis

As the conflict intensifies, people fled the northeastern city of Sumi trying to escape before nightfall, fearing airstrikes that had already claimed 21 lives. Local authorities report that residential buildings and a power plant were targeted. In the west, civilians flee the city of Irpin, near Kyiv, crossing a damaged bridge under fire from Russian troops. Heartbreaking scenes unfold as families say goodbye, with many men returning to fight. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains in Kyiv, delivering a message of resilience despite the ongoing violence. He acknowledges the severe humanitarian situation, especially as snow falls in spring. Meanwhile, in the port city of Odessa, residents prepare for potential attacks by building barricades, hoping to protect their beloved opera house. Military analysts predict that the Russian offensive will escalate, with increased shelling of civilian areas and infrastructure as Russian forces struggle to advance.