Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar stated on Wednesday that Ukrainian forces have fortified themselves on the outskirts of the village of Orozkhine in the Donetsk region after regaining control from Russian forces. Malyar added on Telegram: "Orozkhine has been liberated. Our defenders are fortified on its outskirts." Reuters was unable to independently verify the report. No comments have been issued by Russia yet. In recent days, fierce battles have been fought in and around Orozkhine and Staromayorsk, located about 60 miles southwest of Russian-controlled Donetsk.