CinC Syrskyi: Russia has expanded its force to 710,000 for strategic offensive operation

Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said this during the 32nd meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, Ukrinform reports.

"The enemy has expanded its force to approximately 710,000 personnel for a strategic offensive operation. Despite significant losses, the Russian army has not abandoned its offensive actions, although it has achieved no substantial operational successes," Syrskyi said.

He cited examples of effective actions by Ukrainian forces. In particular, thanks to active search-and-strike operations, Ukrainian units pushed the occupiers away from Kupiansk and regained control of nearly 90% of the city.

Syrskyi also addressed the situation on the Pokrovsk axis, where Russian troops have been trying to capture the city for more than 17 months, concentrating significant forces there.

"Ukrainian units are holding the defense and seizing the initiative. As a result of counteroffensive actions, control over 16 square kilometers in the northern part of the city [of Pokrovsk] has been restored," he said.

According to him, Ukrainian forces also recaptured 56 square kilometers in the areas of the settlements of Hryshyne, Kotlyne, and Udachne west of Pokrovsk.

Syrskyi stressed that Ukraine is simultaneously increasing pressure on the enemy deep inside its territory, striking Russia's critical infrastructure using deep strike capabilities.

"As a result of these strikes, Russia's direct and indirect losses since the beginning of the year amount to a total of $21.5 billion," he said.

Syrskyi stressed that amid Russia's force buildup, external support for Ukraine is crucial, and he urged partners to increase international military assistance, primarily to strengthen air and missile defense and long-range strike capabilities.

During the 32nd meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal said that Ukraine's defense needs in 2026 would amount to $120 billion and called on allies to allocate at least 0.25% of GDP to Ukraine's defense needs next year.

Photo: Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces / Facebook