Ukraine's top political and military leaders did not immediately respond to the claim of the advance, which would be a symbolic and strategic blow after months of battlefield setbacks.

'In addition, the Secretary of Defense may employ any other members of the regular Armed Forces as necessary to augment and support the protection of Federal functions and property in any number determined appropriate in his discretion,' president says

Hakan Fidan discussed efforts to establish a ceasefire during a phone call with Badr Abdelatty and Ayman Safadi, say Turkish Foreign Ministry sources.