Russia announced on Sunday that its troops had seized the strategically important town of Velyka Novosilka in eastern Ukraine, marking a significant development in its ongoing campaign to weaken Kyiv's control over the country's industrial heartland. The town, with a population of around 5,000 before the war, reportedly fell after a prolonged battle, although Ukraine stated that its forces had strategically withdrawn from certain areas.
If confirmed, the capture of Velyka Novosilka would represent the first major town to succumb to Moscow's offensive in the eastern Donetsk region in 2025. Ukrainian forces explained that their withdrawal from parts of the town was a tactical move to avoid encirclement, emphasizing that the fighting in Velyka Novosilka is ongoing.
Despite having comparable artillery and drone capabilities, Ukrainian troops acknowledged that Russian forces hold a significant manpower advantage. The 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade, active in the frontline area, highlighted that their withdrawal was aimed at minimizing losses and inflicting maximum damage on the enemy.
The brigade strategically withdrew to make it challenging for Russian forces to advance further, leveraging the river as a natural barrier. They emphasized that Russian movements are being impeded by artillery fire and drones, ensuring a challenging environment for the advancing troops.
Meanwhile, reports emerged that the suspension of U.S. funding has impacted Ukrainian NGOs supporting war veterans and their families. Following the announcement of a 90-day pause in foreign aid grants by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, NGOs receiving American funding received directives to halt ongoing projects and related activities.
One such organization, Veteran Hub, which offers legal and psychological assistance to war veterans and their families, was compelled to suspend operations of two major service units due to the funding halt. The NGO, which traditionally refrained from public fundraising, issued a plea for public support to sustain its critical services.
As both Moscow and Kyiv vie for battlefield successes to bolster their negotiating positions amid uncertainties over U.S. aid, the conflict in eastern Ukraine continues to exact a toll on the region. Russian forces have intensified their offensive in the Donetsk region, prompting Kyiv to cede several territories in the face of sustained pressure.
