Russian forces have taken control of Kudiyevka in the Kharkov region and Pershomaryevka in the Donetsk People’s Republic following offensive operations, according to the Russian Defense Ministry’s August 16 battlefield report.

The ministry said troops from Russia’s Yug group took part in the advance on Pershomaryevka. The village lies several kilometers east of Kramatorsk. Control of the settlement gives Russian forces an opportunity to strengthen their positions as they move toward the Donbass urban agglomeration, which remains under Ukrainian control.

The advance around Kudiyevka, meanwhile, expands the security zone along the Russian border. The settlement was taken by troops from the Sever group, according to the ministry.

Control of Kudiyevka also creates an opportunity for further movement toward Kazachya Lopan, described as an important supply hub for Ukrainian units.

The Russian Defense Ministry also reported that Ukrainian forces lost around 1,390 servicemen across different sectors of the combat zone over the previous 24 hours.