Ukraine's armed forces are attacking on three fronts: in the east, south-east, and south of the country

There have been early successes, but also signs that Russia is inflicting losses on the advancing Ukrainians

The long-awaited moment has arrived: Ukraine's counter-attack, for which the country has been preparing since late last year, is now underway.

Kyiv is saying nothing, but Ukrainian officials, Western analysts and Russian military bloggers all agree the attack began early this week with fighting ramping up across the frontline since then.

Ukrainian officials say there will be no single thrust and the offensive is designed as a series of operations that will take months to play out. What we have seen over the last week is merely the opening gambit. But things are already starting to take shape.