Ukraine Reports Further Territorial Gains in Eastern and Southern Fronts Against Russian Forces

In a significant update on Monday, Ukraine announced that its military counteroffensive against Russian forces has resulted in the recapture of additional territory on the eastern front and notable advancements in the southern region.

Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar revealed that Ukrainian forces had successfully retaken approximately two square kilometres (0.77 square miles) of land over the past week around the heavily contested city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. Bakhmut, which had fallen into Russian hands in May following months of intense fighting, has been a focal point in the ongoing conflict.

Additionally, Ukrainian forces managed to reclaim two villages situated on the southern flank of Bakhmut—Andriivka and Klishchiivka. The capture of these strategically positioned cities could lay the groundwork for Kyiv to regain control of the pivotal city of Bakhmut itself.

Since the initiation of the counteroffensive, Ukrainian troops have liberated a total of 51 square kilometres (19 square miles) in the vicinity of Bakhmut, as reported by Maliar.

Moving further south into the Donetsk region, Ukrainian troops continue to effectively deter a Russian offensive aimed at Avdiivka and Maryinka, according to Maliar’s statements.

The southern thrust of Ukraine’s offensive, to reach the Sea of Azov, has resulted in the recapture of an additional 5.2 square kilometres (two square miles) over the past week.

Collectively, the Ukrainian military has regained control of over 260 square kilometres (100 square miles) in southern Ukraine during its three-month counteroffensive.

It is important to note that while Ukraine has reported consistent and gradual progress against entrenched Russian positions, including the recapture of numerous villages and advances on Bakhmut’s flanks, it has yet to secure any major settlements.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials have refuted criticisms from Western observers who argue that the offensive is progressing too slowly and hindered by strategic missteps.

At this stage, Reuters has not independently verified these reports, and Russia has not officially acknowledged or confirmed Ukraine’s territorial gains.