KYIV, Ukraine: Russia on Saturday claimed new territorial gains over Ukraine’s military, which is struggling to secure weapons and troops as both countries wage deadly airstrikes against each other.
Russian troops say they have retaken control of the Ukrainian village of Ivanivske, just west of the ruined city of Bakhmut, which they captured 10 months ago, as an extremist attack on a Moscow concert hall sparked fresh conflict between the arch-rivals.
Russian forces have captured a series of frontline towns in recent weeks as Ukraine’s military struggles with a shortage of troops and ammunition.
Adviivka’s fall last month, near the Russian-held stronghold of Donetsk, was the first major territorial victory made by Russia since Bakhmut and was hailed by President Putin as a sign that Russian forces are back on the offensive.
In a statement, Russia’s defence ministry said that the army had “liberated” Ivanivske, which is also close to the town of Chasiv Yar that could become the next target.
If Russia took Chasiv Yar, it could intensify attacks on the strategic city of Kramatorsk that is already facing growing bombardment.
The claim from Russian forces came amid increasing tensions between the two nations over an attack on a Moscow concert hall Friday that authorities said left at least 133 dead.
Ukraine has strongly denied any involvement in the attack, saying that Russia was looking for excuses to step up the war. The US also said it has seen no sign of Ukrainian involvement in the Crocus City Hall attack.
