Overview

• The Russian Defence Ministry announced the capture of Stupochky and Otradne in Donetsk, and Loknya in Sumy, marking further territorial gains in eastern Ukraine.
• Ukraine's military has not acknowledged the loss of these settlements, stating that its forces continue to resist Russian advances in the affected areas.
• Kupiansk, a northeastern Ukrainian city, has been heavily damaged under sustained Russian attacks, with 90% of the city reported destroyed, according to its mayor.
• Russian forces have intensified their focus on the Donbas region since their failed attempt to capture Kyiv in the early stages of the war.
• Open-source reports suggest Russian troops are establishing positions along border villages in the Sumy region, indicating a potential shift in strategy.