Russia claims it took control of village in Ukraine’s Donetsk region

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russia on Sunday claimed that its forces took control of a village in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region.

A statement by the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that its troops captured the village of Novobakhmutivka located around 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of the city of Avdiivka, which Moscow took control of back in February.

The statement further claimed that some Russian forces took "more advantageous positions" in Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

It added that others also improved their situation along the front line, particularly near the settlements of Klishchiivka, Andriivka and Krasnohorivka in Donetsk.

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

Earlier this month, Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said the situation in the country’s eastern front had "significantly worsened” due to Russia’s significant intensification of offensive actions following the country’s presidential election last month.

Ukrainian authorities noted the lack of ammunition in the country's military as a factor affecting the situation on the front line, which they hope will be resolved with Washington’s recent adoption of a $60.8 billion aid package into law.