Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region has become the focal point of both military clashes and diplomatic negotiations over the country’s future. Rich in resources, the area has been a battleground since Russia’s 2022 invasion, causing devastating losses on both sides.Moscow already controls much of Donetsk, but President Putin is now demanding Ukraine surrender the remaining territory it holds as a condition for any peace talks.Fighting on the ground continues, with Russian forces making gradual but persistent gains. Entire towns and villages have been reduced to rubble, drones scour the skies for targets, and the few civilians left are being forced to flee.

A BBC crew visited the frontline town of Dobropillia, which faces relentless Russian strikes and is struggling to survive with its water supply cut off.The report, by Quentin Somerville and Darren Conway, was presented by Reeta Chakrabarti on BBC News at Ten.