Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced that Russian forces have captured the strategic city of Kostiantynivka in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, describing it as a major milestone in Moscow's military campaign.
Speaking during a meeting with Russia's top military commanders at an undisclosed command headquarters, Putin said the city's capture strengthens Russia's position as it seeks full control of the Donetsk region.
According to Russian officials, Kostiantynivka has long been regarded as one of Ukraine's most important defensive strongholds in the eastern "fortress belt" and serves as a key gateway for further military operations.
Before the war, the city was home to nearly 70,000 people, but years of intense fighting have forced most residents to flee.
The Kremlin has repeatedly stated that securing all of Donetsk remains one of Russia's primary military objectives before any final settlement to the conflict.
Ukraine has not officially confirmed Russia's claim, and fighting continues across several areas of the Donetsk front as both sides report ongoing combat operations.
Military analysts say control of Kostiantynivka could have significant strategic implications for the wider battlefield, potentially influencing future offensives in eastern Ukraine.
As the conflict enters another critical phase, attention remains focused on developments in Donetsk, where the battle for control of eastern Ukraine continues with no immediate end in sight..
