Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed a full capture of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine after a prolonged campaign, calling it a key victory but Ukraine's military denied the city had fallen and said battles persisted in the area https://reut.rs/4pobKMf | Reuters

Footage from before and after Russia's invasion show widespread destruction of the city of Pokrovsk. President Vladimir Putin hailed the capture as an important victory, but the Ukrainian military said it still held the northern part of the city https://reut.rs/3Y1PewB | Reuters

Ukraine lines break as Putin's men encircle 5 brigades, 1,000 soldiers in massive Donbas battle Ukrainian forces are locked in intense battles across the Donbass as Russia pushes fresh assaults. Kyiv confirms heavy engagements along multiple frontlines amid signs of a renewed Russian offensive. Commanders warn of rising casualties as troops fight to hold strategic towns under nonstop shelling. The clashes mark one of the fiercest phases of the war as winter conditions worsen the battlefield. #ru