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Far From Kyiv and Moscow, Soldiers Stalk Ruins and Evade Drones on the Front
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- Intense fighting continues between Russian and Ukrainian forces along the frontline, with both sides disputing control over the industrial city of Kostiantynivka in eastern Donetsk.
- Ukrainian officials denied Kremlin claims that Russian troops had captured Kostiantynivka, releasing videos of soldiers claiming to defend the city, though these could not be independently verified.
- Russia views Kostiantynivka as a strategic gateway to Kramatorsk, the last Ukrainian-held stronghold in Donetsk Province, which President Putin aims to capture despite heavy Russian casualties and stalled advances.
- President Putin reaffirmed his commitment to continue the conflict and potentially expand operations, while independent analysts report limited Russian progress.
- Ukrainian President Zelensky spoke with President Trump, agreeing to meet during the upcoming NATO summit, while Trump also held a lengthy phone call with Putin, according to Kremlin sources.
