Russia claims capture of another settlement in eastern Ukraine

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) – Russia on Thursday claimed its forces seized control of the settlement of Troitskoye in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region just before a ceasefire came into force.

In a statement, the Russian Defense Ministry said that troops from the Tsentr (Center) group captured Troitskoye through what it described as “active and decisive actions.”

It added that other units across the frontline reportedly improved their tactical positions and advanced further in several directions.

There has been no immediate response from Ukrainian authorities regarding the claim, and verifying battlefield developments independently remains difficult due to the ongoing war.

Russia had earlier declared a temporary ceasefire in connection with its “Victory Day” commemorations, set to begin May 8.