**Russia Claims to be Advancing on Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, But Ukraine Denies the Allegation**
The Russian Ministry of Defense has announced that its 90th Tank Division has reached the western border of the occupied part of Donetsk Oblast and is moving into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. However, Ukrainian officials are disputing this claim, saying it’s not true.
Andrii Kovaliov, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s General Staff, told Ukrainska Pravda that Russia’s statement “does not reflect reality.” He said that fighting continues in Donetsk Oblast, but Russian forces have not entered Dnipropetrovsk. The regional governor of the area, Serhii Lysak, also dismissed the reports as “fake,” accusing Russia of trying to spread panic and destabilize the region.
**Fierce Fighting Reported at Border**
Ukraine’s Southern Defense Forces reported that Russian troops are actively trying to breach the Dnipropetrovsk border. However, they emphasized that Ukrainian forces are holding firm against these attacks. One soldier from the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade described the relentless small-group infantry assaults as “coming like cockroaches, nonstop.”
Heavy fighting was also reported near the borders of both the 31st and 72nd brigades. The 31st Brigade noted that while the situation remains tense, Ukrainian defenders continue to repel Russian advances.
**Propaganda or Strategy?**
Military analysts are suggesting that Russia’s push towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast may be driven more by propaganda goals than strategic necessity. Although the region has faced frequent missile and drone attacks, it has not previously seen ground combat. This could mean that Russia is trying to create a narrative of success on the battlefield, rather than actually gaining control of the area.
**Ukraine Responds with Bravery**
In other news, Ukraine’s military downed 14 out of 15 Russian explosive drones targeting Dnipropetrovsk Oblast last night. Two Russian antiship missiles also hit an open space in Odesa Oblast, but thankfully no one was injured. These attacks show that Ukraine is determined to defend itself against Russia’s aggression.
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