Ukrainian positions on the front line have significantly strengthened in recent months, and since the beginning of the year the Defense Forces have liberated about 590 square kilometers (228 square miles) of territory, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
In his evening address, Zelensky said Ukraine continues to improve its battlefield position while increasing pressure on Russian forces.
“Indeed, Ukrainian positions are stronger now than in previous years. Since the beginning of the year, 590 square kilometers of our territory have been liberated and brought back under control,” he added.
“The trend is definitely not in the occupier’s interests. We continue to increase the rate of destruction of Russian personnel – this, together with sanctions in all forms, is forcing Russia to choose diplomacy.”
Zelensky disclosed that Ukraine and its international partners are currently focused on intensifying diplomatic efforts. According to him, Kyiv is awaiting feedback from the US regarding possible formats and schedules for future negotiations.
The president also said Ukrainian intelligence continues to monitor Russia’s military and political plans regarding Ukraine and has shared relevant information with international partners.
Separately, Zelensky commented on a report delivered by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) Oleksandr Syrsky, highlighting ongoing long-range strikes against Russian military and energy infrastructure.
“Our long-range sanctions continue. We are achieving the designated goals inside Russia, primarily targeting Russian oil refining and oil export capabilities,” Zelensky said.
“This day, there was a strike on the Yaroslavl refinery – 700 kilometers (435 miles) from our border. We continue our long-range operations,” he added.
Earlier on Friday, Zelensky said Russian troop losses since the start of 2026 had exceeded 145,000 personnel.
Following a briefing from Syrsky, Zelensky revealed that nearly 86,000 Russian troops had been killed, while at least 59,000 more were seriously wounded. Ukrainian forces have also captured more than 800 Russian servicemen.
He added that Ukrainian troops continue operations against Russian forces and military equipment across several sectors, including the northeastern Sumy region bordering Russia.
According to Ukraine’s General Staff, Russia’s total losses since the beginning of the full-scale invasion have reached approximately 1,353,860 personnel as of Friday, May 22, including 880 casualties recorded over the previous day.
Meanwhile, a joint investigation by the BBC Russian Service and Mediazona has identified 217,808 confirmed Russian military deaths as of May 9.
Zelensky’s remarks came after Ukraine’s defense minister said earlier this month that Russia has been losing more troops than it is able to mobilize for the fifth consecutive month.