Russia seized almost 200 sq km of Ukraine's territory in July - AFP estimates
Since the Russian invasion, Russia has seized 65,776 square kilometres of Ukraine's territory
Russia expanded its occupied territory in eastern Ukraine in July, taking control of nearly 200 square kilometres, according to an AFP analysis.
The analysis, based on data from the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW), shows an increase from the previous month, but a significant slowdown from May, when Russian forces launched a ground offensive in the Kharkiv border area that was halted by the Ukrainian armed forces.
In May, Russian troops seized 449 square kilometres, an average of 14.5 square kilometres per day, the most in a month since March 2022.
Since the beginning of 2024, Russia has seized 1,246 square kilometres of Ukraine's territory, which is significantly more than the 584 square kilometres seized in all of 2023.
From 1 to 30 July, Russian troops gained 198 square kilometres, or an average of 6.6 square kilometres per day.
Russian attacks on Toretsk have intensified since July, resulting in a drop in the local population of around 90%, from 34,000 pre-war to 3,400 residents, according to the local administration.
The region is a staging area for Russia to seize Pokrovsk, Toretsk and Chasiv Yar, and from there prepare an offensive on Kramatorsk and Sloviansk.
In June, Russia seized 129 square kilometres, or 4.3 square kilometres per day.
Since the Russian invasion on 24 February 2022, Russia has seized 65,776 square kilometres of Ukraine's territory.
If we include the Crimean peninsula and the eastern zones that were already under Russian control before the invasion, Russia now occupies 107,956 square kilometres, or 18% of Ukraine's territory according to its internationally recognised borders.
AFP's calculations are based on information provided in the ISW daily report, which draws on public information released by both sides and satellite imagery.
Background. As reported by CNN, Russia is advancing on Pokrovsk, a key town for securing Ukrainian positions in the east. By advancing along the entire frontline, Russia is forcing Ukraine to conduct defensive operations rather than prepare for a counteroffensive, the outlet writes.
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