The Armed Forces of Ukraine have once again gained ground on the eastern front, achieving significant advances in the Donetsk region over the past days of intense fighting. In a joint operation between the HUR military intelligence and the III Corps, Ukrainian troops regained full control of the town of Novomykhailivka, a strategic point that had been under Russian occupation and now once again displays the Ukrainian flag in its main square.
The advance was not limited to this town, as the 5th Heavy Mechanized Brigade also announced that it had recaptured much of the settlement of Tovste, also known as Tolstoy, following an offensive supported by artillery, aviation, drones, and ground forces, allowing positions in the area to be consolidated.
According to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukrainian forces have also liberated at least three additional villages in the Donbas in recent days, including Zelenyi Hai, strengthening Ukraine’s control over strategic corridors that had remained under Russian control since the early months of the invasion.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy celebrated the military advances during Ukraine’s Independence Day commemoration, stressing that these achievements demonstrate the country’s resilience and send a clear message that “Ukraine will continue to push Russia toward peace through the strength of its people and defenders.”
Meanwhile, reports confirmed a prisoner exchange between Kyiv and Moscow, with 146 fighters released on each side, while Ukrainian drone strikes continued against facilities on Russian territory, including the border region of Kursk, in retaliation for Russian bombardments in Donetsk and Kharkiv.
Military analysts point out that the recapture of Novomykhailivka and Tovste not only provides a morale boost for Ukrainian troops but also carries strategic value, as it opens the possibility for deeper operations in Donetsk, where Russian forces had established strong defensive lines.
The situation remains complex and marked by heavy fighting, but the recent string of victories reinforces the narrative that Ukraine retains the initiative on the battlefield, gradually reclaiming key territories and strengthening its position in the conflict.
