Russia announced on July 26, 2025, that its forces have seized two villages in eastern Ukraine, including Maliyevka in Dnipropetrovsk Region and Zelenyi Hai in Donetsk Region. These gains represent a fresh push into central Ukraine—an area largely untouched by territorial losses since Moscow’s 2022 invasion.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, Zelenyi Hai was described as a significant Ukrainian stronghold that protected approaches to Dnipropetrovsk’s administrative border. Maliyevka lies within Ukraine's mining heartland, a key coal-producing zone that helps power the country’s grid.

Reuters reported that Ukrainian forces have not confirmed the loss of the villages, but heavy fighting continues along this sector of the 1,000‑km front line. President Zelenskiy identified the logistics hub of Pokrovsk as a focal point, where conflict remains intense. Fighting also persists in the Sumy region in the north, where both sides have reported limited gains and counterattacks.

Al Arabiya and other outlets confirm Russia’s claim of advancing into central Ukraine—a strategic escalation that threatens Ukraine’s economy and energy infrastructure. Authorities have ordered evacuations in areas close to the newly secured front, given increasing civilian risk as Russian troops draw nearer to major urban centers such as Dnipro (Dnipro city remains approximately 200 km from the front).