Russia's Strategic Maneuver: Full Control of Novohrodivka in Eastern Ukraine

Russia announced it has taken full control of Novohrodivka, a town in eastern Ukraine, advancing towards the key city of Pokrovsk. The Ukrainian military described the situation as tense, with battles ongoing in multiple locations. President Putin claimed that a recent Ukrainian incursion had failed to hinder Russia's eastern advances.

Russia declared on Sunday that its forces had secured full control over Novohrodivka, a strategically significant town in eastern Ukraine. This move comes as Moscow's military advances towards the crucial city of Pokrovsk, aiming to breach Ukrainian defenses.

The Russian defense ministry reported taking control of Novohrodivka, situated 12 km from Pokrovsk, a vital logistic hub for Ukrainian forces. Pro-Russian military blogger Yuri Podolyaka shared maps indicating Russian attacks near Pokrovsk. The Ukrainian military's General Staff described the situation as 'tense' with ongoing fierce battles in several areas, including Novohrodivka.

Limited independent verification of battlefield reports is available due to war reporting restrictions. Russian President Vladimir Putin argued that Ukraine's incursion into the Kursk region has not impeded Russia's offensive in the east, claiming it instead weakened Kyiv's defenses. Ukraine's military countered that their operations successfully diverted Russian forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)