Russian forces have claimed control of the city of Pokrovsk in Ukraine's Donetsk region after months of fierce fighting, while Ukraine says it still holds a sliver of the city. The battle for this strategic crossroads could open the way to the cities of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Moscow now controls 19% of Ukraine, but very limited gains have come at a huge human cost.

Russia is pounding energy infrastructure as winter bites, while Ukraine is striking oil facilities and tankers. Meanwhile, the United States and Europe are preparing different peace plans.