Ukraine denies Russian claims of capturing Dobropillia

Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ukrainian President's Office, has denied Russian claims that the city of Dobropillia in the Donetsk region has fallen to Russian forces. This statement follows an announcement by Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 16, in which he claimed that Russian troops had established control over the city.

Budanov asserted that Dobropillia remains under the control of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. He emphasized the importance of providing accurate information during complex peace negotiations, stating, “In this complicated moment, it is imperative that all parties work thoughtfully, especially to assess the actual situation and provide reliable information.”

Furthermore, Budanov accused Colonel General Andrey Ivanayev, commander of the Russian “Center” grouping of troops, of intentionally providing false information to Putin regarding the front line. According to Budanov, Ivanayev had previously reported the capture of the city and is now pressuring subordinates with threats and impossible combat tasks to manufacture a military result that validates his prior reports.