MOSCOW: Russia has claimed the capture of Kurakhove, a strategic industrial town in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.
Despite Russia’s assertion that Kurakhove is now “liberated,” Ukrainian forces are still engaging in ongoing clashes there.
Russia’s Ministry of Defense stated that Kurakhove, crucial for further advances toward Pokrovsk, was fully captured on Monday.
However, a Ukrainian spokesperson disputed these claims, stating that fighting in the town continued on Tuesday morning.
Ukraine Strikes Russian Command Post in Kursk
Simultaneously, Ukraine has intensified its offensive in the Russian region of Kursk after months of operations.
Ukrainian forces launched a precision strike on a Russian military command post near the town of Belaya.
Ukraine’s military has confirmed that troops have regained some territory in the area after last summer’s unexpected incursions.
Reports of escalating frontline confrontations are emerging, as both Russia and Ukraine push for territorial gains ahead of peace talks.
Intensified Fighting in Donetsk and Kursk
Kurakhove, a small town just 25 miles from Pokrovsk, has been heavily shelled in recent weeks.
Russian troops are reported to be encircling Pokrovsk, a vital logistics hub in Donetsk region.
Loss of Pokrovsk would significantly weaken Ukraine’s control over its eastern territory and the southern front.
Ukrainian troops are actively countering Russian efforts to dominate these regions, employing their numerical advantage.
Preparations for Peace Talks Amid War Escalation
Amid continuing conflict, both sides seem to be rushing to secure territorial advantages before potential peace talks.
The international focus intensifies, with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump promising to end the war in one day.
Despite nearly three years of ongoing war, both Russia and Ukraine aim to strengthen their bargaining positions.
Observers are awaiting detailed responses on how peace talks will proceed, but developments in Kurakhove remain critical for Ukraine.