In May 2026, Ukraine's armed forces achieved one of the most significant territorial gains of the conflict, with Russian troops ceding control of about 280 square kilometers while only capturing 40, leading to a net recovery of roughly 240 square kilometers for Ukraine within a single month, as per reports from Ukraine's Ministry of Defence and analysis from RBC-Ukraine. Military experts highlight that many of the Russian gains in May were seen as short-lived advances that were quickly reversed. This change marks a doubling of the rate of Russian territorial losses compared to the previous four-week interval, according to data from ISW. Ukrainian drone operations deep within Russia persist in hindering supply routes and logistical operations.
