Russian forces gain control of Maryinka in east Ukraine, defence minister says

Russian forces gain control of Maryinka, a town in eastern Ukraine, and intensify attacks on Avdiivka. This is one of Russia's most significant gains since the capture of Bakhmut in May. The town, once home to 10,000 people, is now described as a ghost town. President Putin states that control of Maryinka allows Russian forces to expand their operational area. Ukrainian forces continue to hold back the enemy in Maryinka and Novomykhailivka, repelling five Russian attacks.