Russian forces have advanced significantly in Ukraine, capturing an estimated 478 square kilometers (184 square miles) of territory since early October.
Largest Monthly Gain Since 2022
According to data from the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW), this marks Russia’s largest monthly territorial gain since March 2022.
As of October 27, Russian troops had taken more ground than in both August (477 sq km, or 184 sq miles) and September (459 sq km, or 177 sq miles) combined.
Most of these recent gains are concentrated in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces seized approximately 324 square kilometers (125 square miles), according to Digi24.
Russian troops are now reportedly advancing from the south and east, placing them within just a few kilometers of key urban centers.
Controls 18.2% of Ukraine’s total territory.
This advance shows the challenges Ukrainian forces continue to face in eastern Ukraine, where Russian troops hold a numerical and firepower advantage.
Since the beginning of the invasion on February 24, 2022, Russia has captured roughly 67,192 square kilometers (25,938 square miles) of Ukrainian land.
Combined with Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, and areas of the Donbas previously held by pro-Russian separatists, Moscow now controls about 18.2% of Ukraine’s total territory.
Russian troops are increasingly focused on securing key positions in Donetsk and nearby areas, increasing pressure on Ukrainian defenses. This territorial momentum underscores the scale of the challenge for Ukrainian troops as they confront a larger, better-equipped force.
While Ukrainian forces continue their efforts to counter Russian advances, the scale of Moscow’s recent gains signals an escalation that has prompted renewed support from NATO allies, who remain committed to aiding Ukraine in its defense of remaining territories.
