Cyprus Times

Russia Captured 5,600 sq km of Ukrainian Territory in 2025, Largest Gain Since 2022

Published January 2, 2026, 21:02
Russia Captured 5,600 sq km of Ukrainian Territory in 2025, Largest Gain Since 2022

According to an analysis by ISW and CTP, Russian forces captured over 5,600 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory in 2025, marking the largest territorial gain since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. This capture represents 0.94% of Ukraine's total area and exceeds the gains made in 2023 and 2024 combined. Despite intensified diplomatic efforts to end the war, fighting continues, with Russia escalating its attacks in the Donbas region. As of late December, Russia controls fully or partially 19.4% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea and parts of the Donbas that were already under its control before the invasion. Conversely, Ukraine has recaptured 125 sq km in the Kharkiv region and 55 sq km in Dnipropetrovsk. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a deal to end the war is 90% ready, but the remaining 10% is critical for the future of peace and occupied territories.