Russian forces reported further territorial gains in March and April, taking control of 34 settlements and around 700 square kilometers. Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov presented these figures during a briefing at the command post of the «South» group of forces, noting that the operation is still underway.

Since the start of the year, the overall масштабы have been broader. In total, Russian troops have secured 80 settlements and more than 1,700 square kilometers. Gerasimov indicated that these figures reflect a steady advance across multiple sectors of the front.

He singled out the area west of Gulyaypolye, where units of the «East» grouping are continuing an active offensive. Boykovo and Lugovskoye have been taken, while fighting continues in Vozdvizhenka and on the approaches to Verkhnyaya Tersa and Komsomolskoye.

On another axis, within the zone of responsibility of the «Center» grouping, forces are advancing toward Dobropolye. Clearing operations in Novy Donbass are nearing completion, while clashes continue for Belitskoye.

In addition, «Center» units are involved in forming a security buffer in the Dnepropetrovsk region. Fighting is ongoing near Novopavlovka, where more than 75% of the settlement is already under Russian control. Grishino and Pavlovka are also reported to have been taken.

On the Krasnolimansk direction, the heaviest fighting is taking place in Liman itself. Units of the «West» grouping are continuing their operation there, currently controlling about 70% of the city.

Offensive activity is also developing in the south. The «Dnepr» grouping is moving toward Zaporozhye: Veselyanka has been taken, while street battles are underway in Orekhov and Zaporozhets.

During his inspection of the «South» grouping, Gerasimov reviewed commanders’ reports, assessed progress on assigned tasks, and outlined the next steps for troop operations.