Russian troops continue their gradual advance toward the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration from the east, reportedly eliminating several Ukrainian military groups west of the Seversky Donets-Donbass Canal.

The latest developments concern an area near the settlements of Markovo, Tikhonovka, and Vasyutinskoye, which are already under Russian control. Russian forces have now captured an additional section of the Ukrainian defensive line that had been used to launch attacks against Russian units from the rear.

The reported breakthrough has strengthened the Russian offensive line east of Kramatorsk, making its positions along this sector more continuous. According to the report, all Ukrainian defensive positions west of the canal in this area have now fallen under Russian control.

This development removes a major geographical obstacle between the advancing Russian units and Kramatorsk. The city is now approximately five to six kilometers from the Russian forward positions, with no significant natural barriers remaining along this approach.

However, securing the captured territory remains essential for any further advance. Russian troops will need to consolidate their positions to prevent Ukrainian forces from reversing the gains.

Ukrainian units could attempt counterattacks aimed at pushing Russian troops back across the Seversky Donets-Donbass Canal and restoring their previous defensive positions.

To counter that threat, Russian forces would need to reinforce their newly established defensive line and maintain sustained fire pressure across the sector.

The report also emphasizes the importance of targeting Ukrainian military supply routes alongside positions within the immediate offensive area. Such measures are presented as necessary to prevent Ukrainian counterattacks and secure the Russian advance toward Kramatorsk.