ISTANBUL

Russia claimed on Thursday that it took control of another settlement in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, its forces captured the village of Nova Poltavka, situated about 23 kilometers (14 miles) northeast of the city of Pokrovsk, a key front in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Moscow has repeatedly reported territorial gains in recent months, particularly in Donetsk, where heavy fighting has intensified around Pokrovsk.

Pokrovsk serves as a critical logistics hub for Ukraine’s military operations in the region.

Earlier Thursday, Ukraine’s General Staff said on Telegram that its forces repelled 54 assaults in the past day near more than 15 settlements along the Pokrovsk front, including Nova Poltavka.

Ukrainian authorities have not yet responded to the Russian claim. Independent verification remains difficult due to the ongoing conflict.