This comes following the capture of Avdiivka earlier this month, marking Russia's most significant territorial gain since seizing Bakhmut last May.

According to the ministry's statement, Russian troops also secured "more advantageous lines and positions" and targeted Ukrainian forces near three other settlements. Additionally, Russia claimed the destruction of a US-supplied Abrams tank, which Russian-installed officials reported earlier as the first since the US began deliveries in September 2023.

Following substantial successes in pushing back Russian forces in 2022, Ukraine has faced recent setbacks in the east. Ukrainian generals have acknowledged ammunition and weapon shortages, while Russia currently occupies roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory.

On Monday, the Ukrainian military confirmed their withdrawal from the village of Lastochkyne near Avdiivka, aiming to prevent further westward advancement by Russian troops. It's important to note that these claims haven't been independently verified. (ILKHA)