Putin Announces Strategic Gains: Russia Claims Nearly 5,000 Square Km. in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Tuesday that Russian forces have captured nearly 5,000 square kilometers of territory in Ukraine during 2025, asserting that Moscow retains complete strategic control on the battleground.

Putin, speaking on his 73rd birthday to military commanders, emphasized Russian advances while dismissing Ukrainian attempts to penetrate deep into Russia. He maintained that Ukrainian forces were in retreat across all fronts, despite fierce resistance.

General Valery Gerasimov confirmed strategic progress, with Russian troops advancing in key areas such as Donetsk and establishing buffer zones in northern regions. Ukraine, however, reports gains in strategic locations, refuting Russia's advances as failures.