According to him, attacks were launched in 10 out of Ukraine’s 27 regions, leading to casualties. The brunt of the attacks occurred near the frontlines, primarily in eastern and southern Ukraine.
The eastern town of Avdiivka, a crucial strategic point in Donetsk, has borne the brunt of Russian military aggression in recent weeks. “The town is practically being obliterated. Over the past day alone, we’ve recorded more than 40 large-scale bombardments,” remarked local official Vitaliy Barabash.
Casualty reports from the region indicate the death of at least two civilians, with Barabash raising concerns about Russia gearing up for another intensified assault. Ukrainian sources mention that Russia is bolstering its troops in an attempt to encircle and seize Avdiivka. Ukrainian defense forces reportedly thwarted 20 assaults in the vicinity of Avdiivka on Tuesday.
There’s an escalation of aggression in the Kupyansk area, located in the north-eastern Kharkiv region, and attempts by Russia to halt Ukrainian efforts around Bakhmut. Areas away from the front lines, including residential and commercial zones in Nikopol and Kremenchuk, have not been spared either. Notably, an abandoned Kremenchuk oil refinery was ignited after being targeted by a Russian drone. This refinery, once Ukraine’s largest, was previously hit multiple times by Russia since the onset of the invasion.
In terms of territorial gains, Ukraine’s counteroffensive has struggled to reclaim areas in the south and east under Russian occupation. This has led to increasing concerns about diminishing international support for the conflict.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, an ally of Ukraine, recently remarked about the war fatigue becoming apparent on all fronts during a conversation with two Russian pranksters known for their mischiefs with Kremlin adversaries.
The Biden administration has requested a $106 billion support package for both Ukraine and Israel. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has emphasized the significance of this support, stating its crucial role in challenging Putin’s objectives.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a recent address, underlined the global tendency to become easily accustomed to success. He lauded the military’s achievements, especially in limiting Russia’s influence over the Black Sea.
Ukraine’s recent offensive actions impacted the central base of Russia’s Black Sea fleet, resulting in the retreat of many of its vessels from the Crimea region. Efforts are underway by Kyiv to establish a safe maritime route for transporting grain from Ukraine’s Black Sea coast, passing through Romanian waters, and reaching Turkey.
Despite managing to transport a significant amount of grain amidst Russian attacks, officials have reported incidents where anticipated civilian ship routes were targeted. However, the navigation channel continues to operate under military oversight.
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu opined that Ukraine is on the losing side, even with NATO’s supply of new weaponry. He commented on Ukraine’s mounting losses and increasing demoralization of its troops, especially in regions like Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Donetsk. He further claimed advancements by Russian forces.
