Russia achieved its largest monthly territorial gains in Ukraine since March 2022, according to an AFP analysis of data from the U.S. Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Kremlin forces advanced over 725 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory in November, marking a substantial increase from the 610 square kilometers captured in October.
This advance, which covers an area roughly the size of Singapore, represents a significant shift in the dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
The majority of Russia’s territorial gains were concentrated in the eastern region of Ukraine, particularly around the city of Pokrovsk, located in the Donetsk province.
This area, which is a crucial rail and road hub, has seen heavy fighting as Russian troops have pushed closer to its center.
According to the ISW, Russian forces now control nearly 90% of the land gained in November, with approximately 629 square kilometers falling within the Donetsk region.
The rapid progress in Donetsk is particularly noteworthy, as the Ukrainian army now controls less than a third of the region, a dramatic drop from over 40% at the start of 2024.
The shift in territorial control has sparked concerns within Ukraine and the international community, as the region remains a key battleground in the conflict.
Russian forces are reported to be within five kilometers of Pokrovsk, with additional gains made to the south and east of the city in recent weeks.
The accelerating pace of Russia’s territorial advances has become more pronounced since the end of the spring, with November marking the highest monthly gains in over a year.
When factoring in the gains from November, Russia’s total territorial gains in Ukraine since the war’s escalation in 2022 now amount to 3,500 square kilometers.
This is six times more than the total territory captured throughout 2023, highlighting a stark increase in momentum for Russian forces.
Experts suggest that this surge in Russian territorial gains is partly due to intensified military operations in the east and the shifting focus of both Russian and Ukrainian forces in recent months.
With Ukraine’s forces stretched thin and facing continued Russian offensives, the battlefield situation remains fluid, and further territorial shifts are anticipated in the coming weeks.
The Ukrainian government has yet to officially comment on the full extent of Russia’s territorial advances in November, but the recent developments underline the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian forces in the Donetsk region.
The loss of significant ground in the east is expected to further strain Ukraine’s military capabilities, which have been focused on defending key cities and maintaining control over strategic areas.
As the conflict continues, the international community remains closely monitoring the situation, with pressure mounting on both sides to engage in meaningful negotiations.
However, the recent territorial shifts highlight the enduring intensity of the war, and the path to a potential resolution appears increasingly uncertain as Russia’s advances persist.
Leave a Comment