Ukrainian forces repelling Russian advances near Kucheriv Yar, Shakhove in Donetsk region

This was reported by Captain Hryhorii Shapoval, Spokesperson for the East Group ofTroops, in a comment to an Ukrinform correspondent.

When asked whether he could confirm or deny reports of Russian advances in the villages of Kucheryiv Yar and Shakhove located in Donetsk region, Shapoval said:

“I do not deny this information — enemy forces are partially present on the outskirts of these settlements, but fighting continues.”

According to him, Ukraine’s Defense Forces continue defensive operations.

“The situation is difficult but under control, and it was expected. Saying the enemy is ‘advancing’ is an overstatement. They enter in small groups, but the situation is controlled, and defensive formations are being maintained,” the spokesperson assured.

As Ukrinform previously reported, Russian invading forces have significantly increased the number of fire strikes in the eastern sector of the front, with the intensity of shelling rising by 25–30% over the past ten days compared to the previous period.

Illustrative photo: Joint Forces Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine