Ukraine Recaptures Most of Dnipropetrovsk Region Amidst Ongoing Counteroffensive

Ukrainian forces have made significant territorial gains in the Dnipropetrovsk region, liberating almost the entirety of the area affected by fighting, according to recent reports. The advances reach as part of a broader counteroffensive operation in the south, with Kyiv reporting successes while military analysts remain cautiously optimistic.

Recent Gains and Remaining Challenges

Major General Oleksandr Komarenko, Head of the Main Operational Directorate of the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, stated that only three small settlements remain under Russian control in the Dnipropetrovsk region, with clearing operations needed in two additional settlements [1]. Ukrainian forces regained control of more than 400 square kilometers of territory during a counteroffensive on the Oleksandrivsk axis [2].

Komarenko highlighted that in February, Ukrainian forces liberated more territory than was captured by Russian troops during the same period, marking the first time such a shift has occurred since 2024, during Ukraine’s operation in the Kursk region [2]. The Air Assault Forces have restored control over 285.6 square kilometers on the Oleksandrivsk axis during the past month [2].

Strategic Context and Future Operations

Despite the gains, Komarenko emphasized that the battlefield situation remains challenging, particularly in the Pokrovsk and Oleksandrivsk sectors, where the enemy has concentrated its main efforts [2]. However, the situation is gradually stabilizing due to Ukraine’s active actions. The number of enemy attacks around Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad has decreased as forces were redirected toward the Oleksandrivsk axis [2].

Russian forces are planning offensive operations in the spring, aiming to advance in the Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions [3].

Key Takeaways

• Ukrainian forces have almost completely liberated the Dnipropetrovsk region.
• Over 400 square kilometers of territory have been reclaimed during the counteroffensive.
• February saw Ukraine liberate more territory than Russia captured, a first since 2024.
• The situation remains challenging, with intense fighting in the Pokrovsk and Oleksandrivsk sectors.
• Russia is preparing for spring offensives in Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk.