Russian Forces Capture Novodmytrivka in Donetsk

Russian forces have captured the settlement of Novodmytrivka in the Donetsk region, marking a notable advance in their offensive, according to the Russian Defence Ministry. Defence Minister Andrei Belousov claimed that this victory contributes to an accelerated advance against Ukrainian forces, with heavy fighting reported in the Kurakhove sector. Concurrently, explosions were reported in Zaporizhzhia Oblast due to Russian strikes on local settlements and businesses, although no casualties were reported. In addition, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized ongoing military operations along the entire front, with aspirations to reach the borders of the Donetsk People's Republic. The situation remains tense, especially in the Kharkiv region, where Ukrainian forces are actively defending against Russian attempts to secure positions near Kolisnykivka. This ongoing conflict highlights both sides' challenges in verifying battlefield claims amidst the chaos of war.