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Despite losing much territory, Ukraine maintains control over key cities like Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. However, the proximity of Russian troops to Kramatorsk has prompted Ukrainian authorities to begin evacuations, signaling the increasing threat to these strategic urban centers.
Economic and Strategic Importance of Donbas
The Donbas has long been Ukraine’s industrial heartland, rich in coal and other raw materials. Recently, its reserves of rare earths and critical minerals—such as lithium, uranium, and titanium—have gained international attention. The region’s mineral wealth adds an economic layer to its strategic significance, further complicating potential negotiations over its future.