KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russia has claimed control of the last major Ukrainian-held city in one of two eastern provinces that have been the focus of Moscow’s grinding war. A Ukrainian official denied Moscow’s control was complete. If confirmed, Russia’s claim that it seized the last stronghold of resistance in Luhansk province would bring its forces one step closer to achieving one of President Vladimir Putin’s major goals, capturing the entire Donbas. That is a pivotal battle of the war is unfolding. ,” According to a ministry statement published Sunday, Russia’s defense minister told Putin that Russia’s troops, together with members of a local separatist militia have established full control over the city of Lysychansk.
Russia claims capture of pivotal city in eastern Ukraine
