Ukraine’s Counteroffensive Makes Progress in Retaking Russian-Occupied Territory
Ukraine’s ongoing counteroffensive against Russian forces in the eastern region has seen successful advancements, according to the country’s general staff. The military operation aims to reclaim Russian-occupied territories and has recently reported partial success in its efforts.
The general staff report highlights the significant achievements made by Ukrainian defense forces in pushing back enemy positions and strengthening their own foothold. Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar, speaking on national television, confirmed that Ukrainian forces are currently driving their offensive southwards from the recently captured village of Robotyne.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy commended the dedication and effectiveness of military units, specifically mentioning those stationed in the eastern and southern regions. The Ukrainian armed forces have been gradually making progress towards the Sea of Azov, while Bakhmut, a long-standing battleground, remains a focal point in their campaign.
Despite conflicting accounts from Russian sources claiming to have repelled Ukrainian attacks near Bakhmut, the reports remain unverified by Reuters. The counteroffensive, initiated by Ukraine in June, has prioritized the recapture of Bakhmut, seized by Russian troops in May, as well as the liberation of villages in the southern region. The Russian forces pose a formidable challenge, having fortified their positions and conducted extensive mining operations.
Critics in the Western media have expressed concerns over the perceived sluggish pace and effectiveness of Ukraine’s campaign. However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, following talks in Kyiv, acknowledged the very, very encouraging progress made by Ukrainian forces.
In his nightly video address, President Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for the troops’ efforts in dismantling the occupiers. While details of the ongoing operations were not provided, Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of achieving results in Ukraine’s current situation.
Notably, Zelenskiy acknowledged the remarkable contributions of the 12th brigade, which includes soldiers from the Azov brigade that defended the Azovstal steel works in Mariupol last year. These units have played a crucial role in holding Ukrainian positions in the northeast.
Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar disclosed that events are rapidly unfolding on the southern front, where Ukrainian forces are striving to sever the land bridge established by Russia between the occupied east and the Crimean peninsula, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.
Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed that its forces successfully repelled nine Ukrainian advances near Klishchiivka, a village situated on heights south of Bakhmut that holds strategic significance in gaining control over the city.
As the conflict continues, observers maintain a cautious yet hopeful outlook on Ukraine’s counteroffensive. The balance between Ukraine’s progress and the challenges posed by well-entrenched Russian troops underscores the complexities of the situation.
