Russia gained only 14 sq km of territory in May, according to Ukrainian channel

Russian forces made their slowest territorial gains in Ukraine since October 2023 during May, capturing only 14 additional square kilometers of enemy territory, according to calculations published by the Ukrainian military Telegram channel DeepState. The channel suggests that Russia might have actually lost more territory than it gained, as Ukrainian advances are sometimes registered with a delay in the materials compiled by DeepState.

"The war is entering a new phase, and it is important that the Ukrainian state does not lose the initiative," the commentary accompanying the graphic on monthly Russian advances stated. The data presented shows a stark decline from April, when Russia reportedly gained 141 square kilometers. This figure is significantly lower than the 725 square kilometers conquered in November 2024, which DeepState identified as the most successful month for Kremlin forces within the period covered.

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The war is entering a new phase, and it is important that the Ukrainian state does not lose the initiative.

The Ukrainian channel also pointed out that the dramatic drop in conquered territory is occurring alongside an increase in offensive operations. "We have a record of more than 7,000 attacks" by Russian forces, the publication noted. This surge in assaults, however, has not translated into greater territorial gains for the Russians, indicating a potential shift in the dynamics of the conflict on the ground.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated at the end of May that Ukraine has recaptured approximately 590 square kilometers of territory in 2026. This figure, contrasted with the minimal gains by Russian forces in May, highlights the ongoing struggle and the changing momentum in the conflict.

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We have a record of more than 7,000 attacks