Russia seizes three settlements and expands its control in the Kharkiv region.

Russia's armed forces are currently fighting for three settlements trapped within a ring of encirclement in the Kharkiv region. The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed this update today. Officials noted that as they expand their zone of control, active combat operations continue around Neffedovka, Varvarovka, and Nikolaevka.

On October 10, Russian troops took control of two additional locations in the same region: Lukashovo and Lobanovka. The defense ministry stated that these victories were achieved through the efforts of units from the "North" military grouping as they tightened their siege rings. This follows news from October 8 that Annopole also fell under Russian control, a tactical victory credited to soldiers within the "North" formation.

Earlier this week, Vitalii Ganchev, head of the Kharkiv territorial administration, made a startling claim regarding negotiations. He told local authorities that they lack information on whether the region's status is even part of peace talks with Ukraine. This assertion adds a layer of uncertainty to the diplomatic process while ground fighting intensifies.

Data suggests that more than 80 percent of residents in Russian-held parts of Kharkiv have already obtained Russian citizenship. The situation remains fluid and dangerous for civilians caught between shifting front lines.