Ukraine Sees First Territorial Gains Since 2023 Amid Russian Army Weakness

Kyiv Regains Territory in Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhia Regions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that Ukrainian forces have regained significant territory in the Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhia regions, which had been under Russian control. According to Zelenskyy, Russia is losing approximately 35,000 soldiers per month.

The gains, totaling around 257 square kilometers (100 square miles), were largely attributed to Ukrainian counterattacks in the eastern region of Dnipropetrovsk, where Russian troops had previously held little presence. The area has now been reduced to just three towns.

In the neighboring Zaporizhia region, Ukrainian forces have regained nine towns since January, including several key administrative centers. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported that these counterattacks are generating significant tactical and operational effects, which may disrupt Russia’s planned Spring-Summer 2026 offensive campaign.

Ukrainian military officials attribute the gains to Moscow’s inability to replenish its front-line losses, citing lower recruitment numbers throughout Russia. Lieutenant General Ihor Romanenko stated that Russia’s recruitment efforts have been hindered by financial problems caused by Western sanctions.

In an effort to bolster its forces, Russia has reportedly begun enlisting university students, particularly those with low grades, as drone operators. Several Russian universities are offering payments of up to 100,000 rubles ($1,260) per month to incentivize students to enlist.

While Kyiv’s advances have not yet turned the tide of the war, they do indicate a shift in momentum on the battlefield. Ukrainian forces continue to push forward, with Russian troops still holding key areas in Donetsk.

Source: Al Jazeera