- In the last month Russian forces have made increased tactical gains in central Donetsk oblast, particularly in the vicinity of the city of Kostiantynivka. Kostiantynivka itself links to the large urban areas of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Russia is carrying out attacks in three areas: Chasiv Yar (12 km to the north-east), Toretsk (15 km to the south-east) and to the east of Pokrovsk along the H-32 highway.
- The battles for Chasiv Yar and Toretsk have both been taking place for a year. Russia occupies the majority of both but has been unable to fully consolidate control or to exploit slow advances. Most of Chasiv Yar has been destroyed due to heavy Russian aerial and artillery bombardment. Ukrainian forces remain in several fortified buildings in defence.
- Russia has also expanded a salient south-west of Kostiantynivka, advancing approximately 5km in some areas. Russian forces have highly likely severed the H-32 highway which connects Kostiantynikva with Pokrovsk and will likely seek to advance further on this axis in coming weeks.