Russian Armed Forces units are continuing their offensive on the Dobropolye front in the Donetsk People’s Republic. On June 24, Russian troops advanced up to two kilometers north and northeast of Novy Donbass, a settlement they had previously taken.

The advance expanded the Russian-controlled area on the eastern flank near Dobropolye and reduced the distance to the city to about three kilometers. As a result, Ukrainian formations were forced to withdraw toward Annovka, the northeastern suburb of Dobropolye.

At the same time, Russian forces are pressing forward on both banks of the Byk River and have already approached the Oblachnaya railway station near the village of Kutuzovka.

Dobropolye and Belozerskoye, located farther north, are considered the westernmost cities of the Donetsk People’s Republic. Judging by the current situation, active battles for these settlements themselves may begin soon.

In practice, however, clashes in the area are already underway. Ukrainian positions in and around Dobropolye are being hit by Russian strikes almost every day, including attacks by drone operators, manned aircraft and artillery.