Ukrainian forces retreat from village in Donetsk; Russia continues westward advance

Ukrainian forces have retreated from the village of Lastochkyne in the eastern Donetsk region, while Russian forces intensify attacks and continue advancing west. Confirmation came from both sides of the conflict.

“Units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces withdrew from the village of Lastochkyne to organize defense along the line of Orlivka, Tonenke and Berdychi and prevent the enemy from advancing further west,” said Dmytro Lykhoviy, spokesman for the operational group and strategic forces of Tavria.

Lastochkyne is located about 5 km northwest of Avdiivka, in what remains one of the most heavily fought areas on the battlefield. Russia raised its flag in Avdiivka in February.

The Russian Defense Ministry also confirmed this Monday (26) the capture of Lastochkyne, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.

Over the past day, Russian forces have increased attacks around Lastochkyne, conducting 45 airstrikes, 897 artillery strikes and 83 kamikaze drone strikes.

The spokesman for the Ukrainian operational group added that 72 battles took place.

“Despite high pressure from the enemy, our units are actively defending and maneuvering,” he said.

The areas of Avdiivka and Marinka “remain the hottest spots”, he highlighted.

“In the Avdiivka sector, our defenders repelled 25 enemy attacks and 40 in the Mariinka sector, the highest number in recent days,” concluded Lykhoviy.

Source: CNN Brasil

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