An investigation by the AFP revealed that Ukraine has successfully reclaimed more than 200 square kilometers of territory from Russia between Wednesday and Sunday, marking one of the swiftest recoveries the country has experienced in recent times. This success is equivalent to nearly the entire area Russia had captured in Ukraine throughout December. The rapid advancements made by Ukrainian forces are attributed to a resurgence since the counteroffensive that began in June 2023, underscoring a continuous effort to regain control over lost land.

Most of the recaptured territories are located in the Zaporizhzhia region, an area where Russian troops had progressed significantly since last summer. The recent advancements come after Starlink, a satellite internet service provider, limited unauthorized access to its systems by Russian forces in early February. This decision has been pivotal in aiding Ukrainian forces to enhance their operational capabilities and effectively counter Russian advancements, thereby contributing to their current momentum.

Currently, Russia is estimated to occupy approximately 19.5% of Ukraine's territory, an increase from 18.6% last year. The implications of these territorial gains are significant for Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia, as they not only reflect a military resurgence but also serve to bolster the morale of Ukrainian forces and civilians alike. The report emphasizes the value of technological support and timely decisions in turning the tide of the conflict towards Ukraine's favor during this critical juncture.