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Russia Announces Capture of Border Community in Ukraine – Kyiv Doesn't Confirm

Published January 25, 2026, 07:16
Russia Announces Capture of Border Community in Ukraine – Kyiv Doesn't Confirm

The Russian Defense Ministry announced that its forces have taken full control of the border community of Starytsia in the Kharkiv region, near the city of Vovchansk and the Ukrainian-Russian border. Ukraine has not confirmed the capture. Moscow has intensified its efforts to seize territory in the area, despite the staunch resistance of Ukrainian forces. According to the Ukrainian General Staff, Russian forces launched six waves of attacks in the region, without acknowledging the loss of Starytsia. The DeepState website, which monitors the positions of opposing military forces, reports that Russian forces are tightening the noose around Vovchansk. Furthermore, Russia announced that it launched attacks against Ukrainian drone facilities and energy infrastructure. Russian forces continue their advance in Donetsk and are increasing pressure on the regions of Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia.