Russian counterattacks near Bakhmut and Orikhiv failed - British intelligence
Russian army has failed in its attempts to counterattack near Bakhmut and Orikhiv (Photo: Getty Images)
Attempts by Ukrainian forces to recapture the recently liberated territories near Bakhmut and Orikhiv have failed. The Russian army has demonstrated its ability to defend but struggles with launching offensives, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
The summary said that Russian forces had coordinated efforts over the past week to conduct localized counterattacks against Ukrainian advances in both the Orikhiv and Bakhmut directions.
"In both areas, Ukrainian forces have defeated the Russian attacks and maintained their hold on recently liberated territory," the statement noted.
Comments from the Russian military community, published on social media, reveal extreme disappointment among those who participated in these counterattacks, particularly in the Bakhmut region. Reports mention "ill-conceived" advances, the absence of artillery support, and heavy casualties.
British intelligence reports that Russian forces in Ukraine have demonstrated their capability to conduct decisive defensive operations over the past nine months.
"However, it continues to display only minimal capability on the offensive. Commanders struggle to orchestrate complex joint effects, to concentrate sufficient artillery ammunition, and to maintain high morale and offensive spirit," the UK Ministry of Defence emphasized.
Ukrainian counteroffensive
The Ukrainian counteroffensive began in early June, with active fighting south of Bakhmut and on the Melitopol front.
The most recently liberated towns were Andriivka and Klishchiivka. Ukrainian forces have already established fire control over the Bakhmut-Horlivka road, providing more opportunities to target Russian troops and their supply lines.
Previously, British intelligence explained the Russians' inability to launch offensives, citing a lack of rotation in mobilized Russian army units, which has diminished morale, and unprepared units incapable of conducting an offensive.
