Russian Forces Reportedly Gain 128 Square Miles in Ukraine, Capture Promin and Vysoke

Significant Territorial Gains Reported

Russian forces have reportedly secured an additional 128 square miles of Ukrainian territory over the past week, from November 18 to November 25, 2025. This represents a notable increase in the pace of advances compared to the previous week's gain of 37 square miles, and marks the largest weekly territorial acquisition for Russia since the period of July 22-29, 2025.

Advances in Key Localities

Ukrainian analytical and mapping group 'DeepState' reported on November 26 that Russian forces have completed the capture of two villages: Promin in Donetsk Oblast and Vysoke in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Promin is situated near the city of 'Myrnohrad', which remains under Ukrainian control despite being nearly encircled by Russian forces over the last month. Vysoke lies northeast of the small city of 'Huliaipole'.

In the Pokrovsk sector, Russian forces have advanced within the transportation hub, which has been a focal point of intense fighting. Reports indicate Russian forces are geolocated in various parts of Pokrovsk, with some videos showing Russian soldiers in the city center. The Pokrovsk sector registered 41 clashes on November 25, making it the area of heaviest fighting. While Russian forces are described as being 'poised to take Pokrovsk', a city that has resisted assault since summer 2024, Ukrainian forces maintain a limited presence and continue counterattacks, suggesting Russian forces may not be able to rapidly seize the city.

Context of Increased Momentum

The reported increase in territorial gains is partly attributed to a recalibration of existing frontlines by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) to more accurately reflect reports from Ukrainian military sources and local media. This suggests that some of the reported gains may reflect a more precise mapping of existing control rather than solely new offensive pushes. However, Russian forces have maintained a high intensity of offensive activity throughout the autumn, with heavy fog and rain reportedly aiding operations by degrading Ukraine's drone capabilities. On average, Russian forces have conquered approximately 180 square miles (467 square kilometers) each month in 2025, an increase compared to 2024.

Ukrainian Response and Outlook

Ukrainian officials have described the situation on the front lines as 'tense' and 'only getting worse,' expressing concerns about daily losses of land and personnel. The loss of Promin and Vysoke reflects steady Russian advances ahead of the winter fighting season. The ongoing pressure on key areas like Pokrovsk highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian defenses.