Russia Claims Control Over 80 Settlements, 1,700 Sq Km of Ukraine This Year

Russian forces have made significant territorial gains in Ukraine this year, according to claims by the Russian Ministry of Defense. The Chief of the General Staff, Valery Gerasimov, announced that Russian troops have captured 80 settlements and advanced across more than 1,700 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory in 2026. This progress, particularly the reported capture of 34 settlements and 700 square kilometers in March and April alone, underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict.

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Russia claims its forces have captured 80 settlements and over 1,700 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory this year.

Furthermore, Gerasimov asserted that Russian forces have achieved full control over the Luhansk region in eastern Ukraine. The military is reportedly continuing its advance in the strategically important Sloviansk–Kramatorsk–Kostiantynivka stronghold area, having secured six settlements in March. These developments, if accurate, represent a substantial shift in control on the ground and indicate a sustained Russian offensive capability.

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In March and April alone, Russian troops captured 34 settlements and about 700 square kilometers of territory.

From a Russian perspective, these reported advances are presented as evidence of successful military operations and strategic objectives being met. The narrative emphasizes territorial gains and the consolidation of control in key regions, framing the conflict as one where Russian forces are steadily achieving their aims. The consistent reporting of captured territory and settlements serves to bolster domestic support and project an image of military strength and strategic success on the international stage.

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Russian forces now fully control the Luhansk region in eastern Ukraine.