The Russia-Ukraine war has seen significant territorial gains for Russia over the past week, with the country increasing its control to 61 square miles in Ukraine. Despite these advances, there are no public signs that Russian leadership is impressed by US President Donald Trump’s threats to send weapons to Ukraine and impose penalties on Vladimir Putin.
According to data from the Institute for the Study of War, Russia has gained 27,917 square miles since February 2022, representing around 12% of Ukraine. The country has continued to maintain a foothold in Ukrainian territory, with its control over the Kursk and Belgorod regions remaining unchanged.
The military casualties are mounting on both sides, with Russia suffering over 790,000 killed or injured and 48,000 missing, according to an April estimate by SACEUR Cavoli. Ukraine has also suffered significant losses, with 400,000 killed or injured and 35,000 missing.
The economic impact of the war is severe for both countries, with Russia’s GDP growth forecasted at 5.6% and Ukraine’s economy experiencing a decline of -22.6%. The war has also had a devastating impact on infrastructure, with Ukraine losing over 64% of its electricity generating capacity and Russia suffering damage to its energy sector worth around $714 million.
Despite the ongoing conflict, there is a growing sense of fatigue among some Russian citizens, with 64% supporting peace negotiations. In contrast, Ukrainians are less optimistic, with 51% backing peace talks and 56% willing to compromise on the war’s terms.
The international community continues to be engaged in the conflict, with foreign military aid pouring into Ukraine and efforts to negotiate a peaceful resolution between Russia and Ukraine. However, with few signs of Russian withdrawal from the conflict zone, it remains unclear when or if a lasting peace can be achieved.
Source: https://www.russiamatters.org/news/russia-ukraine-war-report-card/russia-ukraine-war-report-card-july-16-2025