Shoigu reported the development to President Vladimir Putin, stating: “The assault detachment of the ‘South’ grouping completely liberated the settlement of Maryinka today.”

The defense minister emphasized that Maryinka had been heavily fortified by the Ukrainian armed forces over the past nine years.

As of now, there has been no official response from Kyiv regarding Moscow’s claim.

Maryinka, located 5 kilometers southwest of the Russian-occupied city of Donetsk, has faced regular shelling attacks in recent months and had a population of around 10,000 before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

The town, once a thriving community, has been reduced to rubble in the 22 months since the invasion.

During the meeting, President Putin acknowledged the strategic significance of capturing Maryinka, noting that it pushed Ukrainian troops further away from Donetsk. In recognition of the soldiers' efforts in the battle for Maryinka, Putin proposed presenting them with state awards.

The situation in the region continues to evolve, and updates may follow as events unfold. (ILKHA)