Russia says it thwarted major Ukrainian offensive, Kyiv disputes Moscow’s claims

Russia claims to have thwarted a major offensive by Ukrainian forces, killing hundreds of soldiers, according to state news agency TASS on Friday. However, Ukraine denies any such offensive and accuses Russia of spreading lies. The conflict between the two countries has intensified in recent weeks, with Ukraine accusing Russia of increasing military presence along its borders and tensions escalating in the Donbass region. The war has now hit closer to home for ordinary Russians, with reports emerging of homes being destroyed and civilians being killed in the region. The international community is calling for a de-escalation of the conflict, with fears of a full-scale war between the countries. The situation remains highly volatile.