**Ukrainian Troops Avoid Encirclement in Velyka Novosilka**
The 110th Separate Mechanised Brigade said that Ukrainian troops have avoided encirclement as Russian forces are closing in on the village of Velyka Novosilka, Donetsk Oblast.
**Fighting Continues Around Village**
Ukrainian troops were forced to withdraw from some areas to avoid being surrounded by Russian forces. However, fighting is ongoing around the village, which is located about 15 kilometers east of the neighboring Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
**Equipment Wears Thin on Both Sides**
The brigade reported that both sides are running low on equipment and ammunition. The Russians have a significant numerical advantage over the Ukrainians, but the Mokri Yaly River creates an obstacle for their advance.
**Russian Troops in Vulnerable Position**
According to the brigade, Russian troops are trapped in a “fire pocket” and will struggle to continue their offensive once they take control of Velyka Novosilka. The river also hinders supply routes to the Ukrainians, making it difficult for them to receive aid.
**Warning Issued on Jan 23**
On January 23, Military spokesperson Viktor Trehubov warned that Ukrainian troops were at risk of encirclement in Velyka Novosilka. Russian forces are attempting to take control of access routes to the village through heavy fire.
**Russian Defense Ministry Claims Victory**
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed on January 24 that their troops had planted a Russian flag in the center of Velyka Novosilka and had split the town in two, cutting off Ukrainian forces. However, experts told the Kyiv Independent that Ukrainian troops were likely holding onto the village’s northwestern areas.
**Unclear Number of Trapped Troops**
It is unclear how many Ukrainian troops were trapped inside the southern pocket in Velyka Novosilka, but it could be around two or three battalions. If Russian forces complete their capture, it will be their first notable win this year.
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