February 23, 2026
Ukrainian forces in the Oleksandrivka sector have successfully regained control of eight settlements. Counteroffensive actions continue despite active enemy resistance, which is using artillery, drones, and armored vehicles.
Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrsky noted that, thanks to the defenders’ professionalism and perseverance, the situation on the front remains under control. He also awarded our defenders.
“I work directly on combat missions in the Southern Operational Zone. During my latest working trip, I visited units advancing and those holding the line in one of the key sectors of the front,” Sirsky noted.
He held a substantive meeting with commanders, during which the status of combat missions, problematic issues and proposals for their resolution were discussed.
Based on the results, we identified priority steps to strengthen our defenses and support our units. Particular attention was paid to logistics, evacuation of the wounded, uninterrupted ammunition supplies, and technical support for units—all of these measures are critical to maintaining the stability of the force.
Syrsky noted that the situation in this area is difficult.
The enemy continues to apply pressure, using small assault groups for infiltration, as well as artillery, drones, and armored vehicles. However, the Ukrainian military is successfully countering these attacks and conducting effective offensive operations.
“Since the end of January of this year, the Air Assault Forces and related units have regained control over 400 square kilometers of territory and eight settlements in the Aleksandrovsk area,” the commander-in-chief noted.
Syrsky personally recognized the soldiers of the 82nd and 95th Airborne Assault Brigades for their courage, endurance, and professionalism in combat. He thanked everyone who maintains their ranks daily and spoke with the soldiers, commending their confidence, composure, and unwavering fighting spirit.
“I spoke separately with our soldiers. Their confidence, composure, and fighting spirit are unshakable. Our plan remains unchanged: effectively accomplish assigned tasks while maximizing the safety and health of our defenders, men and women, strengthening our defenses, and expanding our capabilities on every front line. We are working systematically and harmoniously to liberate Ukrainian soil. Glory to Ukraine! Glory to its defenders!” the commander-in-chief emphasized.
As a reminder, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the Ukrainian army had liberated approximately 300 square kilometers of occupied territory. He noted that the troop advance had been difficult, and even the weather had an impact on the pace of the offensive. He also spoke about the psychological state of the Russian military, who are unable to adequately assess the territorial losses.
As OBOZ.UA reported, the Ukrainian Defense Forces recaptured approximately 201 square kilometers of territory occupied by the Russian Armed Forces between February 11 and 15. Ukrainian forces likely carried out counterattacks, taking advantage of the shutdown of Starlink internet terminals in Russian forces.