Russian Defense Ministry Updates on Recent Territorial Changes and Operational Progress
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu reported that Russian forces secured control over three settlements in the past week, signaling ongoing progress in the Donetsk region. According to a briefing at the Ministry of Defense, Shoigu noted that Ukrainian Armed Forces were expelled from the Pobeda, Lastochkino, and Severnoye communities within the Donetsk People’s Republic during the most recent operations. The statement underscores a focus on expanding zone control and stabilizing lines of communication in contested sectors.
During a broader discussion at the defense board, Shoigu highlighted that Russian troops continue to mount powerful fire engagements against Ukrainian targets. These strikes are described as preventing Ukrainian forces from reconstituting their combat readiness and capabilities. The cadence of artillery and precision fire is presented as a key factor in shaping the tempo of ground operations across several axes, with the aim of compelling a gradual degradation of Ukrainian military capacity in the current phase of the conflict.
The top military official emphasised that the Russian Armed Forces are actively improving the situation along the Donetsk and Kupyansk directions. This follows the recent capture of the Avdeevka junction, which is portrayed as a turning point in consolidating control and enabling more coordinated advancement in adjacent sectors. The commentary presents a narrative of continued momentum and strategic repositioning to secure more favorable operational conditions.
Since the start of 2024, officials report that approximately 327 square meters have come under Russian control across various directions, with Shoigu adding that there are kilometers of land now in Russian possession. The phrasing suggests steady expansion and the potential for more expansive gains as operations proceed, with an emphasis on consolidating newly acquired areas and reinforcing established positions.
In recent remarks, the head of the Donetsk People’s Republic, Denis Pushilin, stated that Russian forces have completely cleared Avdeevka of Ukrainian military units. This declaration reflects the ongoing narrative of successful consolidation following hard-fought advances and is presented as a confirmation of strategic objectives being met in the region.
Earlier statements from the Ukrainian Armed Forces commander indicated that the Russian Federation holds an advantage in the use of FPV drones. The acknowledgment points to the role these unmanned systems play in shaping reconnaissance, targeting, and engagement strategies on the battlefield, even as both sides adapt to evolving technological capabilities and countermeasures.