In eastern Ukraine, the fighting has intensified as Ukrainian and Russian forces clash in multiple areas on the eastern front, according to a senior Ukrainian defense official. Kyiv started a counteroffensive last month to reclaim Russian-occupied territory and has made incremental progress in the east and south.
Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar reported on Telegram that Russian forces have been attacking the Kupyansk area in the Kharkiv region for two consecutive days. Maliar stated, “We are currently on the defensive, engaging in fierce battles where both sides frequently change positions throughout the day.”
Maliar also mentioned that the two armies were engaging in combat near the devastated city of Bakhmut. However, Ukrainian forces are gradually advancing along its southern flank. Additionally, Kyiv’s troops are successfully repelling Russian attacks near Avdiivka and Maryinka.
In an interview with state television, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Ukraine’s counteroffensive is not achieving its goals. He claimed that attempts to penetrate Russian defenses have been unsuccessful.
Reporting by Dan Peleschuk; Editing by David Holmes
Credit: The Star : News Feed
