Kremlin claims complete capture of Kostiantynivka as Kyiv rejects reports

Russian forces are attempting to seize the frontline city of Kostiantynivka, a critical hub in the “fortress belt” of Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, sparking conflicting claims over its control.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters late on 3 July that Russian forces had fully captured the city, though he provided no evidence. The Kremlin also released an undated video showing Russian President Vladimir Putin thanking soldiers and stating that the capture of Kostiantynivka carries...