Photo: Russian Defence Ministry press service / AP

Russia has announced the seizure of new settlements in strategically important areas of eastern Ukraine, approaching Pokrovsk, an important logistics centre for the Ukrainian army. This was stated by the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation, DW reports.

According to the Russian Ministry of Defence, Russian troops “liberated” the villages of Veselyi Hrai south of the industrial town of Kurakhove and Pushkine south of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region.

These territories have become the main target for Russian forces, which have intensified their offensive in the region, which has been going on for several months. According to an AFP analysis, Russian forces seized more Ukrainian territory in November than in all previous months since March 2022.

Ukrainian forces in the combat zone reported “exhausting clashes” near Kurakhove, as well as north of it in the hilltop town of Chasiv Yar, which is currently under fire.

“The situation is complex and volatile. Our troops are now organising themselves to improve the tactical situation,” the Ukrainian military group said in a statement on Telegram.

The seizure of these villages increases strategic pressure on the positions of Ukrainian forces and brings Russian troops closer to important logistical routes in the east of the country.