Russia claims successful capture of two new villages in eastern Ukraine

On Sunday, Russia claimed the capture of two new villages in eastern Ukraine, continuing its gradual advance over the past few months.

The Ministry of Defense stated via Telegram that its forces have "liberated" the villages of Lozova in northeastern Kharkiv and Sontsivka, located near the city of Kurakhove in the Donetsk region.

The ministry indicated that Russian forces nearly completely surrounded Kurakhove, and its fall would be a significant victory for Moscow in its efforts to gain full control of Donetsk.

Russia accelerated its progress in eastern Ukraine in recent months, aiming to secure as much territory as possible before President-elect Donald Trump officially takes office on Jan. 20, 2025.

Trump, a Republican, promised to swiftly end the war in Ukraine, though he has not outlined a specific plan. Kyiv is concerned that US military aid may decline once Trump assumes the presidency.

Moscow reported that its forces have captured over 190 Ukrainian settlements this year, while Kyiv struggles to maintain its defensive positions amid shortages of personnel and ammunition.