Ukraine Claims Regaining Large Areas Since Late January Despite Russian Push

Ukraine’s latest battlefield gains signal localized momentum shifts along a 1,200 km frontline, even as Russian forces sustain offensive pressure and attempt to expand territorial control.

Ukraine has regained control of 480 sq. km (185 sq. miles) since late January, including 12 settlements - 8 in Dnipropetrovsk and 4 in Zaporizhzhia - according to army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.

Following frontline visits, Syrskyi said Ukrainian forces had stabilized defensive lines despite ongoing Russian assaults.

“Russian troops are not abandoning their plans for further offensive operations,” he said, adding they were regrouping forces and equipment.

Russian operations continue to focus on expanding territorial control and establishing a “buffer zone” in Dnipropetrovsk, despite what Syrskyi described as “significant losses in personnel and military equipment.”

President Volodymyr Zelensky said last week that battlefield conditions were the most favorable since mid-2024, suggesting improved defensive positioning.

Analysts note that Ukrainian gains remain tactical rather than decisive amid sustained Russian pressure.

Military analysts, including the Institute for the Study of War, say Ukrainian counterattacks in Hulyaipole and Oleksandrivka are complicating Russian operations near Pokrovsk in Donetsk.

The battle for Pokrovsk, a key logistics hub, has continued since mid-2024, with Russian forces advancing in northern sectors while Ukraine reinforces supply lines and ammunition flows. Syrskyi confirmed additional supplies were ordered to support troops in the area.

Ukraine has also intensified long-range strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, targeting Baltic Sea ports and facilities in the Leningrad region over the past two weeks.

These operations coincide with stalled diplomatic efforts and aim to disrupt Russia’s economic and logistical capacity.

Amid shifting battlefield dynamics and stalled diplomatic efforts, Ukraine is also advancing parallel regional engagement beyond the immediate war theater.

Ukrainian President Zelensky and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan arrived in Damascus on Monday to meet Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, following Zelensky’s meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Türkiye a day earlier.

The parallel diplomatic engagement reflects continued regional outreach alongside ongoing military operations.