Ukraine giving up? Russia liberates Popovka, Sidorovka, Chugunovka; Kharkov and Sumy borders secured

Valery Gerasimov claims Russian forces are advancing across multiple posts in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, reporting the capture of 12 settlements and over 200 sq km in early February. He says Ukraine faces heavy manpower losses and is relying more on drone units, while Russian troops are increasing drone strikes and pushing in Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv and Sumy regions. Gerasimov highlighted fighting near Slovyansk and the Oskol River, and plans for further operations toward Dnipropetrovsk. The statement reflects Moscow’s battlefield assessment and signals continued winter offensives, though such claims cannot be independently verified.