Ukrainian Forces Achieve Rapid Territorial Gains Amid Starlink Disruption
Ukrainian troops have executed a swift and significant counteroffensive, reclaiming approximately 201 square kilometers of territory from Russian forces between Wednesday and Sunday last week. This rapid advance, concentrated primarily to the east of Zaporizhzhia, represents the fastest battlefield gains by Kyiv's military since a major counteroffensive in June 2023. The recaptured area, equivalent to nearly 78 square miles, matches the total land Russia acquired throughout the entire month of December, highlighting a notable shift in momentum on the front lines.
Starlink Shutdown Fuels Ukrainian Success
Analysis from the Institute for the Study of War suggests that Ukraine is likely capitalizing on a recent block on Russian forces' access to Starlink satellite internet services. This disruption, initiated following announcements by Elon Musk to implement measures against Kremlin use of the technology, has reportedly caused severe communications and command control issues for Russian troops. Military observers noted the shutdown of Starlink antennas used by Moscow on the front lines on February 5, with Kyiv alleging that Russian drones had been utilizing these systems to bypass electronic jamming and conduct precise strikes.
Anti-Corruption Crackdown Shakes Wartime Government
In a parallel development, Ukraine's anti-corruption police have accused former energy minister German Galushchenko of involvement in laundering kickbacks and stashing millions offshore. Galushchenko was detained while attempting to leave the country, marking the first major development in months for the "Midas" bribery case, which has implicated figures within President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's inner circle. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine is collaborating with 15 foreign jurisdictions to expand its investigation, though Galushchenko has denied any wrongdoing.
Trump Urges Swift Diplomacy as Talks Resume
Former US President Donald Trump has publicly called for Ukraine to reach a deal with Russia "fast," ahead of trilateral talks scheduled in Geneva. Senior officials from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States are set to convene for a two-day meeting in Switzerland, mirroring negotiations held earlier in Abu Dhabi. Despite renewed diplomatic efforts, hopes for a breakthrough remain low as Russia continues to press maximalist demands. Zelenskyy warned that intelligence indicates further Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, complicating peace efforts and necessitating enhanced air defence configurations.
Civilian Casualties Surge Amid Escalating Conflict
Civilian casualties in Ukraine caused by explosive violence soared by 26% during 2025, reflecting increased Russian targeting of urban areas and critical infrastructure. According to Action on Armed Violence, English-language reports documented 2,248 civilians killed and 12,493 injured, with an average of 4.8 casualties per strike—a 33% increase from 2024. The deadliest incident occurred in Dnipro on June 24, underscoring the humanitarian toll of the ongoing conflict.
