Russian troops accelerated their advance in Ukraine throughout January, capturing almost twice as much land as in the previous month, according to an AFP report.
Russia seized 481 square kilometres (186 square miles) in January, as an analysis of data from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) showed. The January gains were up from 244 square kilometres in December 2025 and were one of the largest advances during a winter month since Russia invaded four years ago.
Despite trilateral talks among U.S., Ukrainian, and Russian envoys held in Abu Dhabi last month, the issue of territory remains the key sticking point. However, a new round of talks is scheduled for later this week.
Russia controls around 83% of the industrial Donetsk region, a strategic mining hub that is home to vast natural resources.
