Ukraine denies Russian claims of capturing Kostiantynivka

Ukraine has refuted Russian assertions that its forces have seized the strategic city of Kostiantynivka in the eastern Donetsk region. Russia had claimed the city's capture the previous day.

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The defenders of Ukraine continue to hold their positions on the designated lines. The situation remains difficult, but it is under the control of the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

Andriy Kovalev, spokesperson for the General Staff of Ukraine, stated that Ukrainian defenders continue to hold their positions. "The situation remains difficult, but it is under the control of the Ukrainian Defense Forces," he told Ukrainska Pravda and Ukrinform. Kovalev emphasized that automated systems confirm Kostiantynivka remains under Ukrainian control.

Units of the 19th Army Corps, part of the "East" troop group, are conducting defensive operations within the city and its approaches. However, Kovalev acknowledged that Russian forces persist in their attempts to capture Kostiantynivka. He noted instances of small Russian infantry groups infiltrating Ukrainian combat formations but stressed that counter-sabotage operations are ongoing within the city.

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Kostiantynivka remains under the control of the Defense Forces.

Kovalev reported that Russian forces launched 11 assault operations in the direction of Kostiantynivka on Friday, all of which were unsuccessful. He accused Russia of frequently resorting to "disinformation and fake news." The Kremlin had previously announced Kostiantynivka's capture, citing a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Russian Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov. Fighting for Kostiantynivka, which would open the path to Slaviansk and Kramatorsk, began in October 2025.

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It is not the first time that the Russians resort to the 'dissemination of disinformation and fake news'.