Russia claims control of Velyka Novosilka, Ukraine denies takeover

On January 26, Russia's Defense Ministry announced the capture of Velyka Novosilka, a strategically significant settlement in Donetsk Oblast, which Ukraine's military has denied, asserting that fighting continues in the area. Ukrainian officials from the 110th Mechanized Brigade acknowledged a tactical withdrawal from some parts to prevent encirclement but emphasized that they have not fully abandoned the town. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted that Russian forces claimed to control 89 percent of Velyka Novosilka, while Ukrainian sources contested this and reported ongoing counterattacks. Experts suggest that the Russian emphasis on this capture may be part of a broader strategy to manipulate perceptions of battlefield success in the West. The situation remains fluid, with both sides experiencing significant combat activity amidst claims of heavy losses and resource shortages. The capture, if confirmed, could indicate future Russian military strategies and operational redeployments in the region.