Donetsk, Aug 25 (V7N) – The Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine faces mounting pressure as Russia intensifies its offensive, with President Vladimir Putin reportedly demanding full control of the region as a precondition for ending the war, according to the BBC.

Russian forces already control roughly 70% of Donetsk and nearly all of Luhansk, advancing steadily. Streets in Donetsk are largely deserted, with residents venturing out only for essential supplies. The city has been without water for a week, and many buildings have been damaged or destroyed.

A week ago, small groups of Russian troops breached Ukrainian defenses around the city. Despite Ukrainian authorities claiming that the situation is currently stable, most residents of nearby Dobropilya are leaving their homes amid growing insecurity.

The human toll continues to rise as civilians face shortages of basic necessities and uncertainty about the city’s future.

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