Kyiv’s forces retake 26 settlements and over 600 km2 in southeastern Ukraine
Kyiv's Forces Retake 26 Settlements in Major Southeastern Ukraine Push
Poinews.com – Kyiv's forces retake 26 settlements in a significant military achievement that demonstrates Ukraine's growing capability for coordinated mechanized operations. According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), this success follows an extensive campaign near Oleksandrivka that spanned more than six months of continuous fighting. Ukrainian military commanders announced the liberation of 26 communities across multiple regions, marking one of the most substantial territorial recoveries since the conflict began over four years ago.
The reclaimed settlements include ten locations within Donetsk Oblast, twelve communities in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, and four settlements situated in Zaporizhzhia. This strategic distribution of liberated territories reflects Ukraine's ability to conduct simultaneous operations across different sectors of the front line while maintaining operational momentum.
Territorial Recovery and Strategic Objectives
Kyiv's military leadership stated that the primary objective was to halt Moscow's seasonal offensive while removing Russian forces from the Dnipropetrovsk sector. Russia had been attempting to establish this area as a protective belt to secure its positions in southeastern Ukraine. The Ukrainian Airborne Assault Forces Command reported that over 745 square kilometres were reclaimed during this operation, while the ISW provided a slightly more conservative estimate of approximately 626.69 square kilometres.
The think-tank noted its counting method "likely underestimates Ukrainian advances," suggesting the actual territorial gains may be even greater than reported figures indicate.
This territorial recovery covers the Oleksandrivka path and extends to the northern boundary of the Hulyaipole zone, creating a more defensible line for Ukrainian forces in the region.
Key Factors Behind Military Success
Multiple elements contributed to these significant victories across southeastern Ukraine. Improved strategic planning by Kyiv's military leadership played a crucial role in coordinating the multi-regional operation. Continuous efforts to neutralize Russian air defences allowed Ukrainian forces to operate with greater freedom of movement. Increased mid-range attacks on Russian supply lines disrupted Moscow's logistical capabilities, while superiority in drone tactics provided valuable intelligence and strike capabilities.
Another critical factor was the sudden termination of Starlink service for Russian personnel on Ukrainian soil on February 1, which significantly impacted Russian communications and coordination during the offensive phase.
Strategic Implications for the Wider Front
Combat activity around Oleksandrivka creates substantial pressure on other sectors of the front line. Moscow must now decide whether to strengthen defenses locally or move resources to different fronts, a choice that becomes increasingly difficult due to falling recruitment numbers in Russia. Looking at the wider front during this six-and-a-half-month window, ISW data shows Russian troops lost about 233.74 square kilometres while capturing 382.98 square kilometres. This disparity highlights the particular importance of the Oleksandrivka results for Ukraine's overall strategic position.
The successful operation demonstrates that Kyiv's forces retake 26 settlements through a combination of improved tactics, better resource allocation, and enhanced coordination between different military branches. These gains not only improve Ukraine's defensive posture but also provide opportunities for future counter-offensive operations in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many settlements did Kyiv's forces retake in southeastern Ukraine? Kyiv's forces retake 26 settlements during the recent offensive operation near Oleksandrivka, with ten in Donetsk, twelve in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, and four in Zaporizhzhia.
What is the total area reclaimed by Ukrainian forces? The Ukrainian Airborne Assault Forces Command claims over 745 square kilometres were reclaimed, while the ISW estimates approximately 626.69 square kilometres.
How long did the Oleksandrivka campaign last? The campaign near Oleksandrivka lasted over half a year, spanning more than six months of continuous military operations.
What role did Starlink play in the operation? The sudden termination of Starlink service for Russian personnel on Ukrainian soil on February 1 significantly impacted Russian communications and coordination during the offensive.
Why are these gains strategically important? These territorial recoveries help halt Moscow's seasonal offensive, remove Russian forces from the Dnipropetrovsk sector, and create pressure on other front line sectors while Russian recruitment numbers decline.