Ukraine says it has recaptured ground in Bakhmut, a rare advance after months of grinding Russian gains in the eastern city.
EDnews informs via BBC that deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said Ukrainian forces advanced two kilometres (1.2 miles) in a week.
The claims signal a momentum shift in Bakhmut - but more widely, there is no clear evidence of the much-anticipated Ukrainian counter-offensive.
Russia has denied reports of Ukrainian gains, after claims from both sides.
"The individual declarations on Telegram about a 'breakthrough' on several points on the frontline do not correspond to reality," Russia's defence ministry said.
"The general situation in the special military operation zone is under control," it added, using Russia's term for the invasion.
As the intense, bloody battle has worn on, Bakhmut has become symbolically important - though many experts question its tactical value.
In a post on Telegram, Ms Malyar said Bakhmut has become a target of "almost sacred" importance to Russia.
She accused the Kremlin of simultaneously claiming false victories on one hand, while also spreading lies about being short on weapons and ammunition.