Russian Armed Forces units have advanced in the eastern and central parts of Rai-Alexandrovka, according to Denis Pushilin, head of the Donetsk People’s Republic.

Pushilin said fighting in the village is continuing, with reports indicating Russian gains in its central and eastern sectors.

He described Rai-Alexandrovka as an important settlement for the further development of the offensive. According to Pushilin, taking control of it could open what he called the «eastern gates» for Russian troops to move toward Slavyansk.

Rai-Alexandrovka is located about 17 kilometers from Kramatorsk and Slavyansk. The village is considered one of the key road junctions of strategic importance for the Ukrainian army.

Pushilin also reported Russian advances near Piskunovka, roughly 15 kilometers from Slavyansk, as well as in the area of the Melovaya Flora nature reserve.

On the Svyatogorsk axis, he said Russian troops are moving toward Piskunovka and the Melovaya Flora reserve.

Russian units are also reported to be advancing in the direction of Svyatogorsk and Bogorodichnoye, while fighting continues near Tatyanovka and Prishib on the Krasnolimansky axis.