Russian strikes kill two in Sloviansk, Ukraine responds with an offensive in northern Donetsk

A Russian strike on Sloviansk in the Donetsk region killed two people and wounded another, while Ukrainian forces have launched an offensive in the northern part of the region.

The victims were a 54-year-old man and a 73-year-old woman, Vadim Lyakh, head of the local military administration, said. A 69-year-old woman was also injured in the attack.

Local authorities reported that the strike caused extensive damage to three homes.

Sloviansk is located in Donetsk, around 15 kilometers from the front line, and is considered one of the main cities in eastern Ukraine.

Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Donetsk has become one of the main centers of the fiercest clashes, retaining its strategic importance for both sides.

Russian strikes on populated areas in the region have repeatedly caused casualties and damage to civilian facilities.

Ukrainian Brigadier General Andriy Biletsky announced earlier that Ukrainian forces had launched an offensive in the northern part of the Donetsk region.

The offensive is taking place as clashes in the area remain intense, with both sides attempting to gain ground and strengthen their positions.

Russia considers Donetsk a key territorial objective and seeks to establish control over the entire region.

Taking full control of Donetsk is among the Kremlin’s main territorial demands in negotiations to end the war.