The Ukrainian Armed Forces have liberated approximately 590 square kilometers since the beginning of the year
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that since the beginning of the year, Ukrainian forces have liberated approximately 590 square kilometers of territory and have generally strengthened their positions on the front lines. He also emphasized that the situation is not developing in Russia’s favor, and that military and diplomatic pressure on Russia is increasing.
Ukrainian positions on the front lines have become noticeably stronger in recent weeks, and the dynamics of combat operations, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, demonstrate a gradual strengthening of the Defense Forces and a loss of initiative by the Russian side in a number of areas.
The head of state reported that since the beginning of the year, Ukraine has been able to regain control of approximately 590 square kilometers of territory, emphasizing that these results are part of a broader process of changing the situation on the front lines. “Since the beginning of the year, approximately 590 square kilometers of territory have been returned to Ukraine’s control,” Zelenskyy noted.
He also emphasized that the current trend of events does not serve Russia’s interests, and Ukraine continues to build on both defensive and offensive gains, particularly in eliminating enemy personnel.
Separately, the president emphasized that the combination of military operations and international sanctions is putting additional pressure on Russia, forcing it to choose between continuing the war and shifting to diplomatic channels. “Right now, the efforts of Ukraine and its partners are focused on intensifying diplomatic efforts,” he said.
Zelenskyy also reported that Ukrainian intelligence possesses information about Russia’s plans and is sharing relevant data with international partners, and is awaiting feedback from the U.S. regarding possible negotiation formats.
According to him, during a briefing by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi, the results of the so-called “long-range sanctions” were specifically highlighted, as they are already impacting the situation, particularly Russian oil refining infrastructure.
Ukraine, together with its German partners, is expanding drone production in Germany. This involves not only increasing the number of drones for the front lines but also creating backup sites in case of attacks, disruptions, or other force majeure events.
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, together with NATO member states, announced the launch of the first competition for the development of next-generation defense technologies. The initiative is being implemented as part of the UNITE – Brave NATO program.
