Russian Advance in Ukraine Is Slowing Despite Putin’s Confidence
A Ukrainian soldier walks past damaged buildings following combat with Russian troops in central Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, in April.
Photographer: Michael Shtekel/AP PhotoRussian forces in Ukraine have made only small territorial gains this year amid steady resistance from Kyiv’s military, undercutting President Vladimir Putin’s assertions that his army has gained the upper hand in the war.
Battlefield data indicate that — despite a consistent advantage in manpower and steady gains — Putin’s military has fallen far short so far of satisfying his war aims. The pace of Russia’s main advance in eastern Ukraine has halved since the start of the year compared with a similar period through the end of 2024, according to data compiled by the DeepState open-source mapping service.