Russian troops captured the village of Shevchenko in eastern Ukraine, important for its lithium reserves, after strong resistance from Ukrainian forces.

The village of Shevchenko in Donetsk has been taken over by Russian troops, according to a Moscow-backed official. It lies near a lithium deposit, assessed as significant for commercial exploitation. Although Ukraine has not confirmed the capture, military sources indicate the village is under Russian control. Lithium, essential for modern technology, is a coveted resource and Ukraine has considerable reserves. Russia has proposed a joint exploitation agreement with the US, similar to the one signed by Kiev.