• Zelensky claims Ukraine still controls the strategic city of Kostiantynivka.
• Russia alleges it has seized multiple villages in Eastern Ukraine, including Kostiantynivka.
• Ceasefire proposal rejected by Ukraine for the handover of soldiers' bodies.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine maintains control over the strategically vital city of Kostiantynivka, refuting Russian claims of its capture. He described the assertions as “another Russian lie” intended to fabricate a narrative of success for Moscow. Zelensky asserted that if Russia indeed controlled the city, President Vladimir Putin would have little reason to refuse a meeting there to negotiate peace terms. The Ukrainian General Staff reaffirmed that military units are conducting defensive operations in and around Kostiantynivka, dispelling the ongoing Russian narrative, according to SCMP and Reuters.

Russia's defense ministry reported that its forces have claimed control over five villages in the Eastern Ukrainian regions of Kharkiv and Donetsk, which includes towns such as Shyikivka, Novyi Myr, and Druzhelyubivka. These advances are seen as part of their broader strategy to strengthen footholds in the industrial regions of Donetsk. The Russian narrative contends that these territorial gains are critical to their military campaign aiming at Kostiantynivka, which they have long sought, according to IndiaTimes.

In light of escalating tensions, Russia accused Ukraine of rejecting a proposed ceasefire meant to facilitate the transfer of fallen soldiers' bodies. The ceasefire was suggested as a six-hour window for securing a humanitarian action, yet Ukraine has not complied according to the Russian Defense Ministry. This has added to the complexities of the ongoing conflict, showcasing the high-stakes environment in Kostiantynivka, which remains a point of contention, as noted by Al Jazeera and Reuters.