Ukraine Regains Control of 400 Square Kilometers in Oleksandrivka

Since the end of January 2026, Ukrainian forces have successfully regained control of 400 square kilometers (154 square miles) of territory and eight settlements in the Oleksandrivka direction, according to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. This area is strategically significant as it lies at the intersection of the Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Syrskyi reported these developments on February 23, highlighting the ongoing offensive operations conducted by the Air Assault Forces and adjacent units.

Syrskyi Confirms Liberation of 400 km² on Oleksandrivka DirectionKyiv IndependentSyrskyi: 400 km² and eight settlements were retaken in month in Oleksandrivka sector

Despite these gains, the situation remains complex, with Russian forces continuing to exert pressure through artillery, drones, and small assault groups. Syrskyi emphasized the need for logistical support, including the evacuation of the wounded and uninterrupted supply of ammunition, to maintain operational effectiveness.

Syrskyi: 400 km² and eight settlements were retaken in month in Oleksandrivka sector

President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on February 22 that Ukrainian forces had liberated 300 square kilometers in the southern region, noting the ongoing advancements along the southern front line. He did not specify the exact sectors involved in the counteroffensive but acknowledged the significant territorial recovery since the renewed Russian ground offensive began in 2025.

Kyiv Independent

Syrskyi expressed gratitude towards the servicemen of the 82nd and 95th Air Assault Brigades for their courage and professionalism. He stated, “Our plan remains unchanged: to effectively carry out the tasks set with maximum preservation of the lives and health of our defenders.”

Syrskyi: 400 km² and eight settlements were retaken in month in Oleksandrivka sector

While the Ukrainian military has reported significant territorial gains, there are concerns regarding the sustainability of these advances amid ongoing Russian counterattacks. Critics argue that the pressure from Russian forces could undermine the recent successes and complicate future operations.

Kyiv Independent

There are discrepancies in the reported figures regarding the area liberated. While Syrskyi confirmed the recovery of 400 square kilometers, Zelensky previously stated that 300 square kilometers had been liberated. This raises questions about the exact extent of the territorial gains and the timeline of these operations.

Kyiv Independent

As the conflict continues, the Ukrainian military is expected to maintain its focus on the Oleksandrivka direction, with ongoing operations aimed at further liberating occupied territories. The situation will be closely monitored, especially as international pressures mount regarding troop deployments and potential negotiations with Russia.

Syrskyi Confirms Liberation of 400 km² on Oleksandrivka Direction

• “The situation in this area is complicated. The enemy continues to exert pressure, actively using small assault groups for infiltration, artillery, unmanned aerial vehicles, and in some places, armored vehicles,” — Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Syrskyi: 400 km² and eight settlements were retaken in month in Oleksandrivka sector

• “Our warriors are not only holding the defense but are also successfully conducting an offensive operation.” — Oleksandr Syrskyi

Syrskyi Confirms Liberation of 400 km² on Oleksandrivka Direction

• “I thanked everyone who stands guard every day. I spoke separately with our soldiers. Their confidence, calmness, and fighting spirit are unwavering,” — Oleksandr Syrskyi

Syrskyi: 400 km² and eight settlements were retaken in month in Oleksandrivka sector

• “Our plan is unchanged: effective execution of assigned tasks with maximum preservation of the lives and health of our defenders, strengthening defense capabilities, and building up capabilities in every sector of the front.” — Oleksandr Syrskyi

On the Oleksandrivka direction, control over 400 sq. km and 8 settlements has been restored - Syrskyi