MOSCOW 

Russia on Friday claimed that its forces have taken control of another settlement in eastern Ukraine.

"As a result of successful military operations, units of the Yug (South) group liberated the settlement of Paraskoviivka in the Donetsk People's Republic," a Defense Ministry statement said.

The ministry also said that Russia's north, west and center groups of forces have improved their battlefield positions.

According to the statement, many weapons and military equipment made in the West as well as in Ukraine were destroyed.

Ukraine has yet to comment on Russia's claims.