Operation Vivaldi: Ukraine Liberates Up to 140 sq km

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced October 3 that the counter-offensive codenamed Vivaldi has liberated between 125 and 140 square kilometres in northern Donetsk region. He called it a highly successful operation that is not yet complete.

Russian Casualties Surge to 42,000 per Month

Speaking to Reuters, Zelensky revealed Russian losses have increased sharply. At the start of 2026, Russia was sustaining around 30,000-32,000 casualties per month. That figure has climbed to 42,000 per month during the current offensive phase. "We lost several times fewer people than Russia, and they were on the defensive," Zelensky said.

Delayed Launch, Stronger Results

Zelensky explained that commanders had wanted to launch Vivaldi a year ago but chose to wait for better preparation. "Thank God we decided to postpone it briefly — now we have good results and fewer losses." The delay paid off with territorial gains and favourable casualty ratios.

Key Milestones of Vivaldi

September 15: Third Army Corps cleared 75 sq km and liberated another 10 sq km. September 20: Corps liberated Shandryholove and Derylove villages, secured full control of Drobysheve. September 28: Brigadier General Biletsky reported 2,000 enemy casualties in phase three, with more than 250 prisoners taken.