Russian soldiers are beginning an all-out attack in eastern Ukraine to encircle Ukrainian troops in twin cities spanning a river.

The outcome of the conflict might decide the success or failure of Moscow’s eastern operation. It occurred as Ukrainian Defense Ministry spokesperson Oleksandr Motuzyanyk warned that the fight in the east will almost certainly determine Ukraine’s fate as a nation.

The city of Sievierodonetsk on the east bank of the Siverskiy Donets river, and its twin Lysychansk on the west bank, have become important battleground, with Russian forces attacking from three directions.

Mr Motuzyanyk said: “Now we are observing the most active phase of the full-scale aggression which Russia unfolded against our country. The situation on the (eastern) front is extremely difficult, because the fate of this country is perhaps being decided (there) right now.”

Meanwhile, two top Russian security officials said on Tuesday that Moscow will complete the “military operation” in Ukraine.

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