Donetsk Region Sees Continued Clashes as Russia Claims New Gains

Military activity continues in the Donetsk region of Ukraine as Russia reports the seizure of two settlements. According to the Russian Defence Ministry, Seredne and Kleban Byk villages are now under their control, following actions by their Southern and Western forces. The ministry also detailed attacks on a Ukrainian military-industrial complex and locations used by Ukrainian troops and international fighters, impacting 143 sites. Russian air defense systems are claimed to have been successful in countering Ukrainian air attacks, with four guided aerial bombs and 160 drones being shot down in the last week. These events occur amid ongoing international diplomatic efforts to negotiate a resolution to the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his willingness to discuss peace terms with Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling his openness to dialogue despite continued military actions.