In April 2026, Russian forces lost more territory than they gained in Ukraine for the first time since August 2024. The pace of Russia’s advance continues to decline amid Ukrainian counterattacks and internal challenges within the Russian military.
This was reported by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). According to analysts, Russian forces lost control of 116 square kilometers of territory in April.
ISW notes that the rate of Russian advances has been declining since November 2025. This is attributed to Ukrainian counterattacks, mid-range strikes, the February 2026 block on Russia’s use of Starlink terminals in Ukraine, and Kremlin-imposed restrictions on Telegram.
Analysts also point to seasonal factors — the spring rasputitsa — which complicates movement of equipment. In previous years, Russian forces increased their rate of advance in May and June as the ground dried, but it remains unclear whether this trend will repeat in 2026.
According to ISW estimates, Russian forces seized 1,443.35 square kilometers between November 2025 and April 2026, significantly less than the 2,368.38 square kilometers seized during the same period a year earlier. The average rate of advance also dropped to 2.9 square kilometers per day in 2026, compared to 9.76 in 2025.
At the same time, Russia has increasingly relied on infiltration tactics, which create the perception of progress without establishing actual control over territory. ISW reports that in April Russian forces seized or infiltrated a net of 28.28 square kilometers, but these areas often remain contested “gray zones.”
The report also notes that Russian forces may face difficulties increasing the number of airstrikes despite claims of expanded capabilities. Problems cited include a shortage of aircraft, maintenance personnel, and inefficient use of resources.
Russian military bloggers have also criticized command decisions, including ineffective targeting and frequent shifts in objectives without achieving results.