Russia accused of exaggerating battlefield gains in Ukraine

Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) report that the Russian Ministry of Defense is systematically exaggerating territorial gains in Ukraine to create a false narrative of battlefield progress. This propaganda strategy appears aimed at influencing domestic Russian voters during State Duma elections and convincing international allies to withdraw support by suggesting a Ukrainian defeat is inevitable.

While the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have captured over 5,300 square kilometers and 220 settlements since the start of 2026, analysts note a massive discrepancy between these reports and the reality on the ground. In contrast, Ukrainian forces have reportedly liberated at least 972 square kilometers and 60 settlements during the same period, maintaining strategic initiative in areas such as Kupiansk and Lyman.

In related developments, the United States Department of State approved the sale of $2.68 billion in air defense equipment to Ukraine on September 18. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act on the same day.