Moscow targets Ukrainian city of Velyka Novosilka as Russia cuts through Donetsk
The Ukrainian city of Velyka Novosilka, located in the Donetsk oblast, is under threat of being attacked by Russian forces.
According to the latest intelligence update by the UK Ministry of Defence, Moscow has set its sights on the vulnerable Velyka Novosilka which is also a key area for Ukraine’s defensive line.
This follows on from Russia's conquest of the city of Vuhledar earlier this year.
The MOD said: "In Donetsk oblast, Russian forces have made rapid advances towards the eastern flank of Velyka Novosilka.
"The town has been situated on the front line since 2022 and has acted as a lynchpin of Ukraine's defensive line.
"Ukraine regained some territory south of the town as part of its 2023 counter-offensive.
"Velyka Novosilka is now vulnerable to Russian attacks due to the loss of Vuhledar, 30km to the east, in early October 2024."
The attack will enable the Russian advance into the less well-defended areas of the western Donetsk oblast.
The MOD believes Moscow is attacking behind established Ukrainian defences and threatening the primary logistics routes to Velyka Novosilka.
Vuhledar was conquered by Russia after its forces attacked the city on three sides in October 2024, ending a two-year-long struggle.
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