Putin has reportedly set at least 15 deadlines for the seizure of Donetsk region since February 2022. Russian forces have failed to meet every one.

Russian President Vladimir Putin insists he will end the war only on Russia’s terms, convinced his forces can seize the entire Donbas by late 2026.

War in Ukraine - Latest update, key takeaways and map from the Institute for the Study of War on September 6, 2026.