Aug 13, 04:27 PM

Russian Forces Capture Two Villages in Eastern Ukraine Before Trump-Putin Summit; Ukraine Launches Counteroffensive

In the days leading up to a scheduled summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian forces made notable advances in eastern Ukraine. Reports indicate that Russian troops pushed several miles into Ukrainian-held territory, capturing two villages and piercing through Ukrainian defensive lines near Dobropillia. This movement represents one of the largest 24-hour advances by Russian forces in the region. However, Ukrainian forces have since mounted a counteroffensive, cutting through the Russian spearhead and reclaiming villages including Nikanorivka and Nova Shakhova. Additionally, Ukrainian troops reported a 2-kilometer advance on the Sumy front. These developments come as Europe prepares for the Trump-Putin summit, highlighting ongoing tensions and shifting dynamics on the ground in Ukraine.