Russia’s Defence Ministry on Friday said its forces had captured several frontline settlements in eastern Ukraine, claims Kyiv has denied or not confirmed.

Moscow said four settlements in Donetsk, including Yampil near Sloviansk, were under its control. Ukraine said Yampil remained in its hands.

Russia’s top general, Valery Gerasimov, said its forces had taken the destroyed city of Kupiansk, a claim Ukraine denied.

Kyiv said Russia launched six attacks there but did not mention any loss of control.

Russia also claimed to have captured Stavky, Novoselivka, Maslyakivka and a village in Dnipropetrovsk.

Ukraine acknowledged heavy attacks in some of those areas but did not confirm losing territory.

Fighting has focused for months on Russia’s push toward Pokrovsk. Gerasimov said Russia controlled 70% of the town, which Ukraine dismissed.

Ukraine said Russia launched 62 attacks near Pokrovsk on Friday.

The military blog DeepState said Russian forces were gradually moving into central Pokrovsk and advancing from the south.

Russia continues a slow westward advance in Donetsk as part of its campaign to capture the Donbas and has also made gains in Zaporizhzhia. Moscow currently holds about 19% of Ukraine.