Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoygu instructed the Vostok group of the Russian Army to prioritize the destruction of long-range weapons that Ukraine uses to shell residential areas of Donbass.
Shoygu pointed out attack capabilities of the group and urged its commander to strike long-range missiles and artillery systems that the Armed Forces of Ukraine use to shell settlements in Donbass.
Earlier in July, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Vostok (East) and Zapad (West) groups of the Russian Army should continue to carry out their tasks according to the previously approved plan.
On February 24, Putin announced the start of the special military operation to demilitarised and denazify Ukraine. The decision was made following Russia's recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics (DPR and LPR).