Russian forces have entered the outskirts of the Ukrainian city of Severodonetsk, according to Luhansk’s regional governor.
Two civilians were killed and five injured in shelling.
The invaders are attacking the city with all weapons and air support, having entered both southeastern and northeastern areas, Serhiy Gardai said.
The neighbouring city of Lysychansk remains under Ukrainian control but the main road into the two cities is being subjected to shelling, he said.
Evacuations are being carried out from Lysychansk.
Russia has been focusing its attacks on eastern Ukraine after withdrawing from northern areas earlier in the war.
Earlier, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said capturing the Donbas region – made up of Luhansk and Donetsk – was an “unconditional priority”.
Severodonetsk has been under intense shelling by Russian forces, leaving the Ukrainians to defend ruins – but their refusal to withdraw is stalling a larger Russian offensive across the Donbas.
