Russian Attacks and Territorial Gains in Ukraine Documented

Russia’s Military Operation in Ukraine Enters Fifth Year

On February 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a “special military operation” against Ukraine, which was followed by the recognition of breakaway regions Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states. The initial invasion was expected to last only a few months, but it has now entered its fifth year.

As of today, Russia occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine’s territory, with the front line shifting slowly. In March 2022, Russian forces reached their furthest advance, occupying around 27% of Ukrainian territory. However, they were unable to sustain this momentum and were eventually forced to withdraw from certain areas.

Since then, Ukraine has mounted counteroffensives that have resulted in the reclaiming of approximately 74,000 square kilometers (28,600 sq miles) of territory, reducing Russian control to around 19% of the country. The conflict has shifted towards a state of attrition, with a focus on the mineral-rich Donbas region.

In recent years, Russia has made gains in certain areas, including the capture of Soledar and Bakhmut after months of brutal combat. However, these advances have come at a high cost in terms of human lives and material resources. In 2024, Ukraine launched a surprise incursion into Russia’s Kursk region, highlighting that the front line is not impenetrable.

According to Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskii, Russian forces have gained only a further 0.8% of Ukraine’s territory since 2025, with most of these gains occurring in Donetsk. The capture of Pokrovsk by Russia in December has led to an increase in violence in the region.

Russia has also accelerated its drone production and integrated drones more systematically into its campaign against Ukraine. According to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED), drone-led targeting of civilians became the leading form of attack in 2025, with a significant rise in air/drone attacks and armed clashes compared to previous years.

A map showing four years of territorial changes on the ground highlights Russia’s gains and Ukraine’s efforts to regain territory. The conflict continues to evolve, with both sides suffering losses and making incremental advances.

Source: Al Jazeera