Russia claims to have capture 5 settlements in Kharkiv, Donetsk regions

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russia claimed Friday that its forces have captured five settlements in eastern Ukraine during ongoing "operations" in the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions, according to the Defense Ministry.

In a statement, the ministry said units of the “West” military group seized Moskovka and Dovhen'ke in the Kharkiv region.

It added that Russian troops also took control of Zelenyi Kut, Ulyanovka, and Novomykolaivka in Donetsk.

Kyiv has not commented on the latest Russian statements. The battlefield situation could not be independently verified.

Fighting in both regions has intensified in recent weeks, with Russia pushing deeper into Ukrainian positions near the border and around key flashpoints in Donetsk.