Ukraine in maps: Tracking the war with Russia
BBC World
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The war in Ukraine is entering its fifth year, with Russian forces making slow but steady progress in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, known as the Donbas area. Over the past year, Russia has expanded its control over approximately 4,700 square kilometers of territory, though it claims to have taken more. This advancement has been particularly evident along a strategic "fortress belt" in western Donetsk, where both sides are heavily fortified. Despite these gains, Russia has not achieved full control of the regions it targeted, including Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, which were areas of focus for its initial invasions.
The conflict's intensity is underscored by recent developments near key towns like Pokrovsk, where Russian forces have made significant advances. This includes capturing parts of the town that once served as a critical logistics hub for Ukraine's military. Meanwhile, Ukraine has managed to hold onto some northern areas of the town, preventing a major Russian victory. The fighting in this region is particularly important, as it could provide Russia with a platform to push further north toward key Ukrainian cities like Kramatorsk and Sloviansk.
The impact of technology on the conflict has also come into play, with Elon Musk's decision to deny Starlink internet access to Russian forces in February giving Ukraine a strategic advantage. This move reportedly disrupted Russia's ability to coordinate attacks using drones and real-time video links, though it remains unclear how long this edge will last. Ukraine is banking on any territorial gains to strengthen its position during peace negotiations.
Efforts to broker peace have been complicated by conflicting proposals. A US-backed plan suggested ceding control of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson to Russia, while also creating demilitarized zones in some areas. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly rejected these terms, stating that any concession could be exploited by Russia for future attacks.
The ongoing conflict highlights the high stakes involved in the Donbas region, where both sides are dug in for the long haul. The outcome of this battle will not only shape Ukraine's territorial integrity but also influence the broader geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe. As the war drags on, the humanitarian toll continues to mount, with tens of thousands of lives lost and communities destroyed. The situation remains fragile, with no clear resolution in sight.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/19/2026