Ankara: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated Sunday that current frontline dynamics indicate Russia is 'not winning and will not win this war.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Sybiha highlighted that publicly available sources show Russia's advance has significantly slowed, with the pace in 2026 being 3.5 times slower than in 2025. Additionally, Moscow has captured less than 0.2% of additional territory in Ukraine this year. In August, the net change in territory was roughly 5 square kilometers, factoring in both Russian captures and Ukrainian recaptures.

Sybiha reported that 42,000 Russian troops were either killed or wounded in August, marking one of the highest monthly casualty rates since the conflict began. In retaliation to Moscow's attacks, Ukraine executed 70 successful long-range strikes on legitimate military targets within Russia during the same month, which is five more strikes compared to last year.

He further commented on Russia's economic challenges, emphasizing its inability to counteract Ukraine's long-range sanctions, which he believes will exacerbate Russia's situation. On the social media platform X, he remarked that the Russian economy's struggles would lead to a deteriorating situation for Moscow.

Focusing on the Donbas region, Sybiha pointed out that Russia has not managed to achieve an operational breakthrough and still lacks control over 20% of the Donetsk region, despite concentrating significant efforts there. He noted that at the current advancement rate, it would take Russian forces over two years to capture the remaining territory.

While acknowledging the challenges Ukraine faces in achieving victory, Sybiha asserted that Moscow is 'not in a strong position either' and lacks the leverage to dictate terms. He criticized the optimistic maps presented by Russian generals to President Vladimir Putin, asserting that the reality on the ground contradicts Russia's claims of progress.

In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Tuesday that Russian forces are increasing their advance, claiming the capture of 270 square kilometers (104 square miles) and 15 settlements in Ukraine's Donetsk region during August.