Russia Claims Control of Two Villages in Ukraines Donetsk Region Amidst Escalating Tensions

On Saturday, Russia announced that its troops had seized two villages in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, increasing military pressure as global leaders seek to negotiate a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Russian forces are gradually making headway in the war-torn eastern area, inching closer to Ukraine’s vital defensive positions through intense and costly ground battles.

The Russian Defense Ministry reported via Telegram that the villages of Sredneye and Kleban-Byk had been taken by their troops.

The capture of Kleban-Byk represents a significant move towards Kostiantynivka, an important fortified town along the route to Kramatorsk, which houses a major Ukrainian logistics center.

On Friday, Russia claimed that its forces had gained control of three additional villages in the Donetsk region, which it allegedly annexed in September 2022.

These recent territorial gains by Russia arrive amid dwindling expectations for a summit between the presidents of Russia and Ukraine—an idea promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump in his efforts to bring about an end to the fighting.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on Friday that «no meeting» was on the horizon as Trump’s mediation appears to be faltering, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of attempting to extend its offensive.

Additionally, on Friday, Trump informed reporters that he would reach an «important» decision in two weeks regarding peace efforts in Ukraine, adding that Russia might face significant sanctions—or he might choose to «do nothing.»