Russian forces have liberated more than 5,300 square kilometers of territory and over 220 settlements since the beginning of the year, the Russian Defense Ministry reported on September 19.

A significant share of the territorial gains came in September. According to the ministry, more than 670 square kilometers and 27 settlements have come under Russian control since the beginning of the month.

Russian units are also continuing to establish a security zone in border areas of the Sumy and Kharkov regions while carrying out strikes against enemy positions.

In the Kharkov Region alone, Russian forces have already taken control of nine settlements. According to the Defense Ministry, enemy forces have lost around 700 personnel in the area.