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Russian President Vladimir Putin once again appeared in military uniform during a visit to an auxiliary command post of Russia's Joint Group of Forces. He held a meeting with senior military commanders to discuss the battlefield situation and the progress of military operations in Ukraine. Key Statements by Vladimir Putin: "We will continue our advance in Donetsk." According to Putin, the Kiev regime controls less than 10% of the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and 16.5% of the Zaporizhzhia People's Republic. The Lugansk People's Republic (LPR), meanwhile, is now entirely under Russian control, Putin stated. Since the beginning of 2026, Russian forces have reportedly brought approximately 6,500 square kilometres of territory and 310 settlements under their control. Putin said Russia's main military efforts remain focused on the liberation of Donbas. He stated that Russian forces are advancing along the entire frontline, with the pace of the offensive increasing. Regarding air defence, Putin said Russian air defence crews are generally performing professionally, although there is still room for improvement. #Putin #Russia #UkraineWar #Donbas #Geopolitics