On Dec. 17, the Ukrainian General Staff warned that Russia’s strategic offensive, amassing roughly 710,000 troops, remains in motion despite significant losses, with Kyiv reporting ongoing successes.
Oleksandr Syrskyi on Russia’s “Strategic Offensive Operation”
The Ukrainian General Staff released its latest report on Dec. 17. General Syrskyi stated that the front remains complex and that Russia has bolstered its forces to about 710,000 soldiers to launch a strategic offensive.
Despite heavy casualties, the Russian army continues its offensive operations but has not achieved major operational successes, according to Syrskyi.
Control of Kupiansk and Attacks into Russia
Syrskyi announced that Ukrainians have recently achieved notable gains, reporting the successful defense of Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region. Ukrainian forces now control roughly 90 % of the city.
He also highlighted assaults deep within Russian territory aimed at critical infrastructure, underscoring Ukraine’s extended operational reach.
Putin on Accelerating the Offensive
During a Defense Ministry meeting on Wednesday, President Vladimir Putin stated that the Kremlin prefers a diplomatic resolution of the Ukraine war but will release historic territories through military means if Ukraine and the West refuse substantive talks.
Putin also suggested the possibility of intensifying the offensive, noting that Russian positions, outposts, and attacks—gained through tactical and operational experience in recent battles that breached deep enemy defenses—enable an increased pace in strategically vital areas.