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Fact Check: Moscow controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory.

Fact Check: "Moscow controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory."

What We Know

The claim that "Moscow controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory" refers to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, particularly following Russia's invasion of Ukraine that began in February 2022. According to a report from Wikipedia, as of 2025, Russian troops occupy approximately 20% of Ukraine. This occupation has resulted in significant displacement of the Ukrainian population, with millions fleeing the country or being internally displaced due to the conflict.

Additionally, reports from various sources indicate that Russia has made territorial gains in regions such as Luhansk and Donetsk, which are part of the eastern part of Ukraine. The Moscow Times reported that Russian forces claimed to have full control over the Luhansk region, which is part of the territory that has been contested since the beginning of the conflict.

Analysis

The assertion that Moscow controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory is supported by multiple sources, including both Wikipedia and news reports. The Wikipedia entry on the Russian invasion of Ukraine provides a clear statistic that aligns with the claim. However, it is crucial to consider the context and the evolving nature of the conflict. The situation on the ground is fluid, with territorial control frequently changing due to military operations.

The reliability of the sources varies. Wikipedia entries are generally well-sourced and updated regularly, but they can be edited by anyone, which may introduce inaccuracies. The Moscow Times, on the other hand, is a reputable news outlet that focuses on Russian affairs and is likely to provide more accurate and timely information, although it may also carry a bias due to its location and audience.

While the claim appears to be substantiated by credible sources, the dynamic nature of the conflict means that the percentage of territory controlled by Moscow can fluctuate. Therefore, while the claim is currently supported by evidence, it is essential to remain cautious about its permanence.

Conclusion

Verdict: Unverified
The claim that "Moscow controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory" is supported by credible sources, including Wikipedia and news reports. However, the situation is fluid, and the percentage of territory controlled can change due to ongoing military actions. Therefore, while the claim has a basis in fact, it cannot be considered definitively verified due to the potential for rapid changes in the conflict.