Russia's Ukraine Gains Hit 2022 High Amid Attrition Warfare

• Russia seized over 5,600 sq km of Ukrainian territory in 2025, its most significant advance since 2022, shifting the conflict to attrition.
• An AFP analysis, using ISW and Critical Threats Project data, highlights Russia's gradual gains against depleted Ukrainian forces.
• Moscow transitioned from early "shock tactics" to sustained attritional warfare, using intense bombardment and infantry assaults.
• Ukraine faced severe challenges in 2025 due to manpower shortages and equipment deficiencies, leading to tactical withdrawals.
• Russia's strengthened battlefield position complicates diplomatic efforts, with Moscow demanding Kyiv's withdrawal from Donbas.

Why It Matters: Russia's 2025 territorial gains in Ukraine, driven by attrition, mark a critical shift, strengthening its hand.