Ukraine Conflict
Moscow launched a special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022 with the aim of saving the people of Donbass - primarily the Russian-speaking population - from Kiev's constant attacks.

Russia's Chief of General Staff Inspects Zapad Battlegroup in Special Military Op Zone

In the Special Operations Area, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov, inspected the Zapad Battlegroup. During the inspection, he reviewed the current military situation and assessed the progress of operations on various fronts.
Sputnik
Key statements by Valery Gerasimov:
Russian troops continue to advance on all fronts
Since the beginning of January 2026, the Russian Armed Forces have liberated 17 settlements and established control over more than 500 sq. km of territory
The Zapad group has liberated Kupyansk-Uzlovoy, with clearing operations currently underway in the city's quarters. The unit continues active offensive operations across a broad front, engaging in urban combat to liberate Krasny Liman and Ilyichevka.
Russia's Dnepr Battlegroup has liberated Novoyakovlevka. The unit is advancing towards Zaporozhye, with forward units positioned 12-14 km from the city's outskirts. Four settlements were brought under control in January.
The Sever group of forces is expanding the security buffer zone in the border areas of Sumy and Kharkov regions, having liberated 4 settlements over the past month.
Units of the Yug Battlegroup are actively advancing westward in the direction of Slovyansk, engaging in the destruction of enemy forces in Konstantinovka.
In January, control of 4 settlements in Dnepropetrovsk and eastern Zaporozhye regions was transferred to the Russian Vostok group of forces.
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