ISTANBUL 

Russia on Sunday said that it has improved its military positions in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, as the war between the two countries entered its third year. 

According to a Russian Defense Ministry statement, military units have pushed back Ukrainian forces around the settlements of Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka.


The statement further said that Russian forces took control of “more advantageous lines and positions,” while also pushing back Ukrainian forces around the settlement of Tonenke near the city of Avdiivka, from which Ukraine withdrew on Feb. 17

Ukrainian authorities have not yet commented on the claims, and independent verification of Russia’s claims is difficult due to the ongoing war.