Recent reports indicate that Russian forces have captured the town of Velyka Novosilka in Ukraine's Donetsk region. The Russian Ministry of Defense announced the town's capture on January 26, 2025.
Ukrainian military sources acknowledge a partial withdrawal from Velyka Novosilka to avoid encirclement but emphasize that combat operations are ongoing. The 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade stated that their forces have repositioned to more advantageous locations to minimize losses and inflict maximum damage on advancing Russian troops.
The capture of Velyka Novosilka, a town that had approximately 5,000 residents before the conflict, represents a significant development in Russia's efforts to gain control over the Donetsk region. Analysts note that Russian forces employed a pincer movement to encircle the town, a tactic that has been effective in recent operations in eastern Ukraine.
The situation remains fluid, with Ukrainian forces continuing defensive operations in the vicinity. The strategic significance of Velyka Novosilka lies in its location, which could serve as a staging ground for further Russian advances into the Donetsk region.