On Monday, the Russian Defense Ministry announced that Russian forces had successfully seized control of the Ukrainian village of Stepove, situated approximately 7 miles northwest of Avdiivka. This development marks a significant territorial advance for Russian troops in the ongoing conflict.
Following the Russian incursion, the Ukrainian military confirmed on Tuesday that it had made the decision to withdraw its troops from Stepove, along with the neighboring village of Sieverne. Both villages, with a combined pre-war population of fewer than 100 individuals, have now fallen under Russian control.
The capture of Stepove comes on the heels of Russia’s recent takeover of the town of Avdiivka earlier this month. Avdiivka’s capture represents a notable strategic gain for Russian forces, marking their first major territorial acquisition since seizing control of Bakhmut in May of the previous year.
These developments underscore the escalating tensions and ongoing military operations in the region, highlighting the precarious security situation faced by both Ukrainian civilians and military personnel. As the conflict continues to unfold, the international community closely monitors the evolving dynamics and ramifications of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.
