Ukraine’s Counter Offensive Faces Challenges But Makes Progress Against Russian Forces

Ukraine Faces Challenges in Advancing Southward in Counter Offensive Against Russian Forces

July 15 (Reuters) – President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has issued a warning to Ukrainians, stating that Russia is using all its resources to halt Kyiv’s troops from advancing in their counter offensive. Despite reports of progress on the southern front, Ukrainian military analysts have suggested that the situation is not easy for Ukrainian forces as they attempt to move southward.

Since the invasion launched by Russian forces in February 2022, Ukraine has been determined to reclaim the territories in eastern and southern Ukraine that were captured. The focus has been on capturing villages in the southeast, with the goal of reaching the Sea of Azov and areas near the city of Bakhmut. Russian accounts have claimed that their forces have successfully repelled Ukrainian attacks in the eastern Donetsk region, particularly around Bakhmut.

President Zelenskiy, in his nightly video address after a meeting with top commanders, emphasized the determination of Russian forces to stop Ukrainian soldiers. He expressed gratitude for every success achieved by the combat brigades in their advance. However, Reuters was unable to independently verify the reports from the battlefield.

General Oleksander Tarnavskyi, the commander of Ukrainian forces in the south, reported that his troops were systematically pushing the enemy out of their positions. He stated on Telegram that the enemy had suffered losses equivalent to at least 200 over the past 24 hours.

Military analyst Serhiy Hrabskyi highlighted the difficulties faced by Ukrainian forces in advancing towards Berdiansk, a port on the Sea of Azov. The Ukrainian forces aim to cut off the land bridge established by Russian forces with the annexed Crimean peninsula. Hrabskyi noted that the enemy was offering resistance to impede the southward advance, particularly in the village of Robotyne.

Russia’s Defence Ministry, in its daily report, claimed that its forces had repelled 16 Ukrainian attacks on the eastern front. These attacks included clashes near the long-contested town of Maryinka and the strategic village of Klishchiivka, located on the southern fringe of Bakhmut.

The situation remains tense as Ukraine continues its counter offensive, facing resistance from Russian forces. The outcome of this ongoing conflict will have significant implications for the region.

Reporting by Ronald Popeski and Oleksander Kozhukhar; editing by Diane Craft

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

What challenges does Ukraine face in cutting off supply routes for Russian forces near the border with Russia?

And towns near the border with Russia in order to cut off supply routes for Russian forces and regain control over strategic areas.

However, advancing southward in the counter offensive has come with its own set of challenges for Ukraine. The terrain in southern Ukraine is not as favorable for military operations compared to the eastern regions, which are predominantly flat and open. The south is characterized by hilly and forested areas, making it more difficult for Ukrainian troops to manoeuvre and launch offensive operations.

Additionally, Russia has been deploying a wide range of military capabilities, including tanks, artillery, and air support, to halt Ukraine’s advancement. The Russian forces have also been using hybrid warfare tactics, such as cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and irregular forces, to disrupt Ukrainian military operations and sow confusion among their ranks.

President Zelenskiy has acknowledged the daunting task that lays ahead for Ukrainian forces. He warned that Russia is utilizing all its resources to hinder their progress, demonstrating the intensity of the conflict and Russia’s determination to maintain control over the occupied territories.

Despite these challenges, there have been some reports of progress on the southern front. Ukrainian forces have managed to recapture several towns and villages, strategically cutting off supply routes for Russian forces and regaining control over key areas. However, analysts caution that the situation remains fluid and dynamic, with the potential for further escalation and setbacks.

The conflict in Ukraine has sparked international concern and condemnation. The United States and European Union have criticized Russia for its aggression and called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict through diplomatic negotiations. Both sides have engaged in talks, but a lasting solution has yet to be achieved.

As Ukraine faces challenges in advancing southward, it is clear that the conflict in eastern Ukraine is far from over. The stakes are high for both Ukraine and Russia, with the latter seeking to maintain its influence and control over Ukraine, while the former is determined to reclaim its territories and secure its sovereignty.

The situation remains precarious, and the international community must continue to support Ukraine’s efforts for a peaceful resolution and work towards de-escalation in the region. Only through diplomatic negotiations and a commitment to international law can a lasting solution be achieved that respects Ukraine’s territorial integrity and ensures the well-being of its people.