Russia Claims Capture of Key Village Near Strategic Industrial Hub in Eastern Ukraine

Moscow, The Gulf Observer: Russia has claimed further advances in eastern Ukraine, with the Russian Ministry of Defense reporting that its forces successfully captured Izmailovka, a frontline village located just north of the industrial center of Kurakhove. According to Moscow’s official statement on Sunday, Russian army units have “liberated the settlement of Izmailovka,” pressing their advantage against what they described as overstretched Ukrainian defenses.

Izmailovka, with a pre-conflict population of under 200, is strategically situated approximately eight kilometers from Kurakhove and lies close to Kurakhivka, a smaller town that forms part of a frontline Russia is seeking to encircle. This capture marks another step in Russia’s gradual territorial gains in the region over recent months.

In related developments, Russia reported the interception of 51 Ukrainian drones over several regions, including areas near its border. These incidents come amid escalating tensions as Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated warnings to Western nations regarding their support for Ukraine. In an interview aired on Sunday, Putin indicated that Moscow would respond decisively if the West permitted Ukraine to utilize long-range missiles on Russian territory.

“It’s too early to say yet, but of course, our military department is thinking about it and will offer various responses,” Putin stated, following months of requests by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for authorization from Western allies to target areas deep inside Russia. Zelenskyy has argued that expanded missile capabilities would pressure Moscow into peace negotiations.

Last month, discussions between the United States and Britain on supplying Ukraine with long-range weaponry were reportedly close to a decision. However, subsequent warnings from Russia about the potential for direct NATO involvement led to a delay in finalizing the move.

Putin conveyed his hope that Western leaders had taken these warnings seriously. “They didn’t tell me anything about it, but I hope they heard,” the Russian leader commented.