We really don't know what was his plans, analysts are trying to interpret his moves, but there could hundreds of reasons why he is doing these tactics, maybe keep the Ukraine army busy while he is attacking other fronts. The truth is nobody can tell, not even the Pentagon spies. Not even Placeholder or you
the Minsk accord he signed was doing this, yet was ignored by Zelensky and the Europeans. He claims he doesn't mind Ukraine joining the EU as long as it doesn't join NATO. Putin says what he means, unlike our western leaders.
I don't think they are putting all their forces out there, some analysts are surprised by this also. Is it incompetence or strategic (saving resources for later attacks)? you can't tell, I can't tell.
it's debatable, and I think it will be at the end, many died for what? for a peace accord that was a copy of what was already signed yet ignored.
War is always for nothing at the end.