Ukrainian forces have recaptured territory at their fastest pace in years through localized counterattacks along the southeastern front, even as U.S.-backed negotiations with Russia in Geneva ended without a breakthrough.
The battlefield advances come amid disruptions in Russian communications and shifting operational dynamics, developments analysts say could strengthen Ukraine’s leverage while diplomatic talks remain stalled.
According to an Agence France-Presse report based on analysis from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Ukrainian forces retook approximately 78 square miles of territory over five days. The gains mark Kyiv’s most rapid territorial advances since its 2023 counteroffensive in the Donetsk region and Zaporizhzhia region.
Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Richard Newton said Ukraine’s battlefield performance should not be underestimated.
“As this war grinds on, the world too often forgets that Ukraine’s determination, innovation and moral clarity are force multipliers,”
“Its ability to defend against a larger, better-resourced enemy should never be counted out.”
Newton added that there are growing signs that Russia’s perceived invincibility is eroding, particularly as pressure increases on the Kremlin and its partners.
The most recent fighting has centered east of Zaporizhzhia, where Russian forces had steadily advanced since mid-2025. Open-source battlefield monitoring indicates Ukrainian troops pushed forward around Huliaipole and surrounding settlements, though analysts cautioned the front line remains fluid and some areas are not yet fully secured, according to reporting by The Telegraph.
In a mid-February assessment, ISW said the counterattacks appear to be exploiting disruptions in Russian command-and-control systems. The group said Ukrainian forces are likely taking advantage of limitations affecting Russian battlefield communications, including reported restrictions related to the use of Starlink terminals and messaging platforms cited in open-source reporting.
Analysts noted that reduced connectivity can create brief windows for Ukrainian units to move through contested zones that are typically dominated by drone surveillance and electronic warfare. ISW and other observers emphasized that these opportunities are temporary and do not indicate a broader collapse in Russian defenses.
The evolving fight is also shaped by the expanding role of drones. In a Feb. 10 special report, ISW said Russia’s growing use of first-person-view drones reflects an effort to “weaponize and institutionalize intentional civilian harm as a purposeful tool of war,” warning the tactic is becoming embedded in operational doctrine and could influence future conflicts.
Despite the recent territorial gains, analysts cautioned against interpreting the developments as a decisive turning point in the war. Newton stressed that sustained Western military support remains essential.
“Putin responds to force,” Newton said.
“The United States and Europe should continue providing Ukraine with both defensive and offensive capabilities, including long-range systems capable of striking deep inside Russia.”
Retired Vice Adm. Robert S. Harward said battlefield developments are increasingly intertwined with diplomacy.
“Both sides are trying to use battlefield advances to strengthen their position at the negotiating table,” Harward said.
“It’s a sign neither side is ready to strike a deal yet.”
Harward pointed to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s stated willingness to hold elections following a ceasefire as a signal of flexibility from Kyiv, while Moscow continues to press its demands.
“If a lasting and fair diplomatic agreement is achievable, the current U.S. team is well-positioned to help deliver it,” Harward said.
“But negotiations must be paired with sustained pressure on Russia and its partners.”
Nearly two years after Ukraine’s last major offensive stalled, the conflict remains defined by incremental territorial changes rather than sweeping breakthroughs. Both sides continue to rely heavily on drones, artillery, and electronic warfare, with front lines shifting village by village.
“As U.S.-led talks continue, it is critical to increase pressure on Putin to end the war on terms that restore deterrence and prevent further aggression,” Newton said.
