ISTANBUL

Russia on Saturday claimed that its forces captured the village of Zirka in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.

According to a Defense Ministry statement, Russian troops from the Vostok (East) military group conducted “decisive offensive actions” that led to the capture of the village, which lies in a contested area of the frontline.

No independent confirmation was immediately available, and Ukraine has not yet commented on the Russian claim.

The Donetsk region remains one of the main flashpoints in Russia’s war in Ukraine, with intense fighting continuing along several axes.

Russian forces have recently intensified operations in the area, claiming incremental gains.