Putin proposes humanitarian mission in Kostiantynivka, Ukraine denies Russian control

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a "humanitarian mission" in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk region, during talks with US envoys, while Ukrainian authorities deny Russian control over the city. Putin suggested the operation, modeled on a similar one in Oleshky, involving foreign press, and claimed 400-500 civilians remain there. Ukraine's General Staff previously stated his claims of occupation are false, and President Zelensky challenged Putin to meet there. Putin insisted Russian forces control the city and could ensure security, proposing demining within five days and involving both countries' ombudsmen. Ukrainian presidential advisor Dmytro Lytvyn noted Russia used the Oleshky operation to move equipment and rotate troops under cover.