Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Latest Developments

On February 24, Russia invaded Ukraine, but in early April, Ukrainian forces retook major territories around Kyiv when Russia abandoned its assault for the city.

Following its pullback from Ukraine's north, Russia has refocused its efforts on gaining control of the country's east and south.

After unleashing heavy firepower to damage Ukraine's defences, Russian forces appear to be strengthening their positions in the country's east.

The following are the most recent developments:

• Russian forces are intensifying their bombing of the Donbas region

• Russian reinforcements are anticipated to occupy positions north of Kharkiv

• Russia is prepared to surround the strategic city of Severodonetsk

In recent weeks, Russian soldiers have concentrated their efforts on Izyum and to the east of Severodonetsk.

As they move to surround Severodonetsk, Russian troops have taken control of Rubizhne and Popasna.

However, to the north, Ukrainian forces had pushed the majority of Russian forces out of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city.

Russian troops removed from Kharkiv are currently being redeployed to the Donetsk region, according to the ISW.