In recaptured Ukrainian territories, civilians speak of hardship amid devastation | AFP

Ukrainian forces have rapidly advanced into Russian-occupied territory recapturing a number of towns and villages in the east, some located in regions Moscow claims to have annexed and in which Russian President Vladimir Putin has introduced martial law.

But the Russian occupation and fierce battles have left them devastated and civilians fear what's to come.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, thousands of people have been killed and millions displaced from their homes.