Russia has captured the eastern Ukrainian town of Vuhledar, ending months of resistance and highlighting Kyiv’s challenges. Verified footage showed Russian troops raising their flag over the town’s ruins. Ukraine’s military confirmed its withdrawal to avoid encirclement, prioritizing personnel and equipment safety. Vuhledar, strategically located at the junction of Ukraine’s eastern and southern fronts, was heavily fortified. Its fall marks another incremental gain for Russia in the Donbas region. Despite previous failed assaults, Russia’s victory is attributed to brute-force attrition rather than strategic prowess.