Russian forces have destroyed Ukraine's defenses in parts of the Donetsk oblast, it has been reported, as a map shows the state of play along the frontline. Russia has been increasing its gains towards the Donetsk logistics hub of Pokrovsk which is central to its goal of taking the whole region.

General Oleksandr Lutsenko has come in for severe criticism recently, amid reports Russian forces are less than two miles from the strategic city.

Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander overseeing defences in the eastern Donetsk region where Russian forces are making swift advances, a military official said on Saturday.