The analytical project DeepState reports that Russia occupied 4,336 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory in 2025, representing approximately 0.72% of Ukraine's total area.
"This is approximately 0.72% of the entire territory of Ukraine," DeepState states. The project notes that from 1 January 2023, to 1 January 2026, the total increase in occupied territory reached 7,463 square kilometers, or 1.28% of the country's total area.
"Compared to previous years, 2025 was truly difficult for the Defense Forces of Ukraine," according to DeepState.
The project published statistics showing occupation levels by region. Donetsk Oblast saw the largest change, with occupation increasing by 10.6 percentage points to reach 78.1%. Zaporizhzhia Oblast's occupation rose by 2.1 points to 74.8%, while Kharkiv Oblast increased by 1.3 points to 4.7%.
Luhansk Oblast remains nearly fully occupied at 99.6%, up 0.6 points from the previous year. Kherson Oblast's occupation level held steady at 72%.
Three oblasts saw Russian forces enter for the first time during this period. Dnipropetrovsk Oblast now has 0.6% of its territory occupied, while Sumy Oblast stands at 1%.
DeepState provided comparative data showing changes since 2022. Donetsk Oblast's occupation increased from 56.7% to 78.1% over three years. Luhansk Oblast went from 97.9% to 99.6%, while Zaporizhzhia Oblast rose from 72.8% to 74.8%. Kharkiv Oblast's occupation grew from 1.9% to 4.7%.
According to the project, 116,165 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory are currently occupied, representing 19.25% of the country's total area. "Every 5th square kilometer," DeepState notes.
Crimea remains 100% occupied with no changes. The project adds that the percentage of occupied territory on the Kinburn Spit in Mykolaiv Oblast "does not play a role in the figures."
