Mapping Russian attacks and territorial gains across Ukraine
Al Jazeera
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
On the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the conflict continues to shape the region with significant territorial shifts and ongoing battles. Russia currently controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, down from a peak of 27% early in the war. The conflict has transitioned into an attrition-style warfare, centered on the Donbas region, where both sides have suffered immense losses. Despite heavy casualties, Russia's gains remain limited, with only minor advances reported in recent months.
In 2023 and 2024, fighting in the Donbas region intensified around key locations like Soledar, Bakhmut, and Avdiivka, which were captured by Russian forces after prolonged battles. Ukraine's northern front saw a notable achievement when they repelled Russia's long-standing campaign for Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region through a surprise counteroffensive. Meanwhile, in the south, Ukrainian forces made history by infiltrating Russia's Kursk region, challenging perceptions of an impenetrable frontier.
A notable feature of the conflict has been the increased use of drones by Russian forces, leading to a tripling of drone-led attacks since 2025. These unmanned aerial vehicles have significantly impacted both military operations and civilian populations, often
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/24/2026