local
Russia is still inching forward in eastern Ukraine, but experts say claims of progress are exaggerated
By CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7
· June 24, 2026
· 6 min read
By Daria Tarasova-Markina, Lauren Kent, CNN
Kyiv, Ukraine (CNN) — Russia is still inching forward in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region, where it has concentrated the bulk of its troops, as it continues efforts to encircle the key “fortress belt” city of Kostyantynivka and the city of Lyman.
Bu...
Key takeaway These are groups of maybe one to two guys, Russian servicemen, entering some positions in the city… it’s not a consolidated position,” said ISW’s Russia team lead, Kateryna Stepanenko, who described the tactic as slow and grinding.
Why this matters in The El Paso
For El Paso residents with family ties to Ukraine, the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine hits close to home. The city's own Ukrainian community has been actively engaged in raising awareness and support for those affected by the war. As Russia continues to push forward in the Donetsk region, El Pasoans with connections to the area are likely to be concerned about the fate of cities like Kostyantynivka and the impact on Ukraine's defense. The situation also has implications for El Paso's own community events, such as cultural festivals and fundraisers, which often feature Ukrainian heritage and traditions. As the conflict continues to unfold, El Pasoans may see increased efforts to support Ukrainian refugees and families affected by the war, highlighting the need for local organizations and community groups to come together and provide aid.
About this story
Original reporting by KVIA ABC-7 . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KVIA ABC-7 . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: KVIA ABC-7 ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? By Daria Tarasova-Markina, Lauren Kent, CNN
Kyiv, Ukraine (CNN) — Russia is still inching forward in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region, where it has concentrated the bulk of its troops, as it continues efforts to encircle the key “fortress belt” city of Kostyantynivka and the city of Lyman.
Bu...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by KVIA ABC-7 and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7. To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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