Why it matters:
The capture of Dibrova underscores Russia’s continued military pressure in eastern Ukraine and highlights the intensifying ground battles as both sides vie for territorial and tactical advantages.
The big picture:
Eastern Ukraine remains one of the most volatile theaters of the conflict, particularly in Donetsk and its neighboring regions. Control over small but strategically located villages can affect supply routes, defensive lines, and momentum on the battlefield.
State of play:
Russia says its forces are advancing or improving positions across several operational axes.
Ukrainian forces are reported to be mounting counterattacks, particularly near key cities and settlements.
Fighting continues despite mounting casualties on both sides.
What they’re saying:
Russian Defense Ministry Announced that Russian troops captured Dibrova and are pushing forward across all operational groupings.
The ministry also stated that Ukrainian attempts to advance toward Kupiansk were repelled.
Key points:
Dibrova village in Donetsk has fallen under Russian control.
Heavy ground clashes were reported in Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions.
Fighting intensified around Kupiansk, Podoly, and nearby settlements.
Russian forces reported advances in Sumy, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Dnipropetrovsk regions.
By the numbers:
According to the Russian military, more than 1,350 Ukrainian soldiers were reportedly killed over the past day.
Nearly 500 casualties were reported in Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk alone.
Go deeper:
Russia Sounds Alarm as Ukraine Eyes Tomahawks
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