Ukraine Regains Territory Amidst Ongoing Conflict

As of February 23, 2026, Ukraine has regained control over 400 square kilometers of territory, including eight settlements, primarily in the southeastern Dnipropetrovsk region. This development was reported by Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, who emphasized the significance of these gains amidst a backdrop of slow and costly Russian advances over the past two and a half years of conflict. The Ukrainian military's recent successes are particularly noteworthy as they come at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Ukraine should consider concessions in peace negotiations.

ReutersUkraine liberates territories - military explained whether events in Zaporizhzhia direction can be considered a counteroffensive

Ukrainian forces have been conducting counterattacks rather than a full-scale counteroffensive, as noted by military expert Andriy Kramarov. He clarified that the current operations aim to stabilize the front line and close vulnerable areas rather than push deep into enemy territory. The focus remains on defensive actions, with Ukrainian units working to regain control of key positions that are crucial for artillery and drone operations.

Ukraine liberates territories - military explained whether events in Zaporizhzhia direction can be considered a counteroffensive

Kramarov pointed out that the recent territorial claims should be viewed with nuance, stating, "To talk about 400 square kilometers is incorrect. The territory exists, but it sounds populist." He emphasized that the primary goal is to strengthen defenses and stabilize the situation rather than achieve a major offensive breakthrough akin to past operations in Kharkiv or Kherson.

Ukraine liberates territories - military explained whether events in Zaporizhzhia direction can be considered a counteroffensive

In response to the evolving battlefield dynamics, the Russian military is reportedly undergoing a large-scale rotation of troops and preparing for a spring offensive campaign in 2026. This shift has allowed Ukrainian forces to act more actively in certain areas, particularly as Russian reserves have been redirected from the Zaporizhzhia direction.

Ukraine liberates territories - military explained whether events in Zaporizhzhia direction can be considered a counteroffensive

Ukrainian officials, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have praised the recent territorial gains, describing them as "astonishing" and indicative of Ukraine's effective resistance against Russian advances. The Ukrainian General Staff has not provided detailed clarifications regarding the extent of territory previously held by Russian forces versus areas in contention.

Reuters

Despite the reported gains, some military analysts, including Kramarov, have expressed skepticism regarding the characterization of these operations as a counteroffensive. He argues that the current military actions are more about stabilization and defense preparation than aggressive territorial expansion. This perspective highlights the complexities of the situation on the ground, where the front lines are increasingly blurred due to the extensive use of drones and evolving military tactics.

Ukraine liberates territories - military explained whether events in Zaporizhzhia direction can be considered a counteroffensive

There is a lack of clarity regarding the specific areas regained by Ukrainian forces and the extent of previous Russian control. While some reports celebrate the 400 square kilometers as a significant achievement, others caution against viewing this as a decisive turning point in the conflict.

Reuters

As the situation develops, the focus for Ukrainian forces will likely remain on stabilizing the front lines and preparing for potential Russian offensives in the coming months. The ongoing military dynamics will continue to shape the narrative of the conflict as both sides adapt their strategies in response to battlefield realities.

Ukraine liberates territories - military explained whether events in Zaporizhzhia direction can be considered a counteroffensive