Russian forces have intensified their offensive in eastern Ukraine, capturing the settlements of Kleban-Byk and Srednee in the Donetsk region, according to a Saturday statement from the Russian Defense Ministry. The advance brings troops closer to Kostyantynivka, a strategic town near Kramatorsk, where Ukrainian military logistics are concentrated.
Ukrainian officials countered the claims, announcing on Telegram that their forces halted a Russian advance and retook the village of Zeleny Gai. The conflicting reports underscore the fluidity of frontline dynamics as both sides vie for control of critical supply routes.
Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa amplified calls for diplomacy, holding talks with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European counterparts to advocate for renewed peace negotiations. Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed Ramaphosa plans further discussions with European leaders to sustain momentum toward resolving the conflict.
The Russian military also reported intercepting 160 drones and four guided aerial bombs during operations targeting Ukrainian industrial facilities and foreign mercenary positions. These developments come amid heightened global scrutiny of the war's economic and humanitarian toll.
