In May 2023, Russian forces captured only 14 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory, according to the analytical project DeepState. This figure represents the lowest monthly territorial gain for Russia in three years, indicating a significant slowdown in military progress.
DeepState analysts noted that May was particularly challenging for the Russian military, marking the slowest pace of territorial acquisition since October 2023, when a large-scale offensive began across multiple fronts. The report emphasizes that the mapping of territorial gains by Ukrainian defense forces may be delayed for security reasons.
According to the analysis, May marked the first month following the 2023 counteroffensive where the total area occupied by Russian forces decreased. Despite the limited territorial gains, the number of Russian assaults surged by 37.5%, exceeding 7,000 attacks during the month. However, this increase did not translate into significant advancements on the ground.
“We are constantly provided with videos showing Russian forces conducting assaults in pairs, and often, a single soldier attempts to storm positions. But as they advance, they become easy targets,” the report stated.
DeepState also pointed out that while infiltration attempts by Russian forces continue, the response from Ukrainian defense units has become more robust, complicating the enemy’s efforts to gain a foothold.
The situation remains particularly difficult in the vicinity of Kostiantynivka, with analysts suggesting that prospects for the city are unfavorable. On May 29, DeepState reported that Ukrainian forces had liberated territory near Novoselivka in the Oleksandrivsk sector, confirming that defenders had launched a new offensive in that direction earlier in May.
In December, Ukrainian defense forces shared images and videos depicting life in Kostiantynivka, which has faced systematic destruction by Russian occupation troops.
In May 2023, Russian military gains in Ukraine slowed significantly, with only 14 square kilometers captured, marking the lowest monthly advance in three years. Despite an increase in assaults, the lack of substantial territorial progress raises questions about the effectiveness of Russian operations.