The media is acting as if Russia is trying to take back territory. They are not, they are on the offensive taking territory.

Why? So when reality sets in they have something to offer as a concession. They have had the territory they actually want for well over a year completely fortified.

https://www.newsmax.com/world/globaltalk/russia-ukraine-war-avdiivka-attacks/2023/10/17/id/1138547/