Russia Says Seized a Dozen Ukrainian Villages in February - The Moscow Times
Moscow Times
February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Russia’s army chief, Valery Gerasimov, announced that Moscow’s forces have seized a dozen Ukrainian villages in February, despite severe winter conditions. This move comes as U.S.-mediated peace talks approach and ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Gerasimov emphasized that Russian troops are making progress toward key targets, such as Sloviansk, an industrial hub strategically important to both sides.
The article highlights how Russia’s territorial gains in eastern Ukraine have accelerated in recent months, though the country has yet to achieve its goal of fully controlling the Donetsk region. Gerasimov also mentioned expanding a security zone in the northeast and advancing toward Dnipropetrovsk, despite no official claim by Moscow on these areas. These actions underscore Russia’s broader efforts to strengthen its control over Ukrainian territory.
Putin has repeatedly warned that Russia will resort to force if diplomacy fails, signaling an escalation in the conflict. The Kremlin’s demands for Kyiv to withdraw from Donetsk remain a major stumbling block, as Ukraine views such terms as unacceptable. This stalemate raises concerns about further military confrontation and the ongoing instability in Eastern Europe.
The situation is significant globally due to its impact on international relations, energy markets, and humanitarian crises. As Russia continues its aggressive posture, the world watches closely for any potential escalation that could reshape the region’s geopolitical landscape.
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Originally published on Moscow Times on 2/15/2026