KYIV: Russia claimed the capture of another village in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region on Monday, the latest in a series of gains ahead of a major Ukraine summit in Switzerland.
As dozens of world leaders and diplomats prepare to convene for the upcoming summit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky seeks to garner global support for Kyiv’s efforts to repel Russia’s invasion. Despite ruling out direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky aims to rally backing from non-Western countries to bolster Ukraine’s position on the international stage.
Russia’s military offensive has intensified in recent months, resulting in the loss of several frontline settlements by Ukrainian forces. The latest capture of Staromaiorske, located southwest of Donetsk, underscores Russia’s strategic advantage in manpower and resources.
President Putin highlighted Russia’s territorial gains, claiming the seizure of 47 Ukrainian towns and villages since the beginning of the year. The advancement extends beyond the Donetsk region, with Russian forces launching a major assault in the northeastern Kharkiv region, compelling thousands of Ukrainians to evacuate.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has decided not to attend the upcoming summit. Instead, Vice President Kamala Harris will represent the United States, while Ukraine seeks high-level engagement from key stakeholders, including China.
Despite diplomatic setbacks, Switzerland confirms the attendance of 90 countries at the summit, offering an opportunity for Ukraine to rally support for its stance against Russia’s invasion.
On the battlefield, Ukrainian soldiers report intensified fighting in strategic towns, particularly Pokrovsk and Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region. The relentless assault on Chasiv Yar underscores Russia’s determination to consolidate its territorial gains and further undermine Ukraine’s defenses.
Meanwhile, Ukraine alleges striking Russian air defense systems on the Crimean peninsula, a territory annexed by Russia in 2014. The alleged strikes target key military assets.
Russia’s defence ministry said Monday its forces “continued to advance into the depths of the enemy’s defence and liberated the settlement of Staromaiorske,” located southwest of the Russian-held city of Donetsk.
