Russia has claimed the capture of another village in eastern Ukraine, as its forces continue to press forward in a grinding offensive that has stretched into its third year. The Russian Defence Ministry announced on Saturday that troops had taken control of the settlement following what it described as “intensive fighting” with Ukrainian forces.
The ministry said the latest advance strengthens Russia’s position along the eastern front, where it has sought to consolidate territorial gains since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Officials in Moscow hailed the development as proof of the army’s momentum, even as battles elsewhere remain fiercely contested.
Ukraine has yet to confirm Russia’s claim, though Kyiv has acknowledged facing increased pressure in several parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Ukrainian military spokespeople said their troops continue to mount a “stubborn defence” despite shortages of ammunition and manpower. They insisted that Russia’s advances, while incremental, come at a high human cost.
The reported capture comes amid a wider escalation of strikes on Ukrainian cities. In recent days, Russian missile and drone attacks have targeted energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, leaving parts of the country facing blackouts and water shortages. Ukrainian officials have accused Moscow of deliberately weaponising winter conditions to break public morale.
International observers say the situation underscores the attritional nature of the conflict, with neither side able to secure a decisive breakthrough. Analysts note that Russia’s strategy of capturing small settlements may be aimed at gradually weakening Ukraine’s defensive lines while projecting a narrative of steady progress to domestic audiences.
Meanwhile, Western allies continue to pledge support for Kyiv, with the United States and European Union announcing additional military aid packages. However, delays in weapons deliveries and political divisions in donor countries have raised concerns about Ukraine’s ability to sustain its defence in the months ahead.
As the war drags on, civilians remain the hardest hit. Thousands have been displaced from frontline areas, and humanitarian groups warn that the situation could worsen if fighting intensifies. With both Moscow and Kyiv showing no signs of backing down, the conflict appears set to continue its devastating toll on the region.
