Moscow Announces Capture of Two Ukrainian Villages in Donetsk Region

The Russian government has announced its military has seized control of two villages in the Donetsk region of Ukraine. The Russian Defence Ministry released a statement confirming the capture of Seredne and Kleban Byk. This occurred following military operations by their Southern and Western forces. Furthermore, the ministry claimed that attacks were conducted against a Ukrainian military-industrial complex and locations where Ukrainian and foreign troops were stationed, hitting 143 targets. Russian air defenses reportedly neutralized Ukrainian air attacks, intercepting four guided aerial bombs and 160 drones over the past week. Concurrently, international diplomatic efforts continue, with the United States exploring the possibility of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has communicated his readiness to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.