Kyiv
CNN —
Russian Advances in Dnipropetrovsk
On Sunday, Russia announced that its military forces are making progress into the central Ukrainian area of Dnipropetrovsk, a region they have sought to capture for months. This escalation may pose additional challenges for Ukrainian forces stretched thin across various fronts.
Military Movements and Claims
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, units from the 90th tank division of the Russian military reached the border of Dnipropetrovsk, adjacent to the Donetsk region, which is largely under Russian control, before reportedly pushing further into Dnipropetrovsk.
Verification and Response
The precise details of this advance remain uncertain, as do Russia’s objectives. CNN has been unable to independently verify these claims, and Ukrainian officials have refuted reports of a Russian incursion.
Strategic Implications
If confirmed, this Russian advance could represent a significant setback for Ukrainian forces, particularly as peace negotiations have hit an impasse. Recently, Russian troops have made incremental gains in areas like northern Sumy and near Lyman in Donetsk.
Regional Tensions
The Russian push poses increased pressure on Ukraine’s control over Pokrovsk, a crucial point that has faced persistent Russian attacks. Ukrainian military leadership reported that they thwarted 65 aggressive actions from Russian forces targeting the Pokrovsk area.
Broader Context of the Conflict
Currently, Russia occupies nearly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, encompassing Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine captured before its full-scale invasion in February 2022. The Kremlin’s continued military movements are seen as attempts to solidify territorial gains amid stalled negotiations.
Disagreements over Peace Talks
Tensions surrounding the ongoing conflict intensified recently, highlighted by a failed prisoner exchange. Ukrainian leaders dispute Russian claims of postponement, underscoring ongoing complexities as both nations pursue negotiations amidst ongoing military operations.
