Stoltenberg on the Ukrainian counteroffensive: Heavy fighting, but gradually gaining momentum
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg (Photo: RBC-Ukraine, Vitalii Nosach)
The Ukrainian Armed Forces have managed to break through the defensive lines of Russian forces, and the counteroffensive is gradually gaining momentum, stated NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg during his speech to the members of the European Parliament.
According to Stoltenberg, the Ukrainian soldiers are gradually "gaining ground" despite fierce battles, and their counteroffensive is "bearing fruit."
"Ukraine is "gaining ground" amid their counteroffensive that they started earlier this year. They have been able to breach the defensive lines of the Russian forces, and they are moving forward," said the NATO Secretary-General.
Frontline situation
During the summer, Ukrainian forces intensified their offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region. Currently, battles are taking place on two fronts simultaneously – in the Melitopol and Berdiansk directions. Some reports suggest that Ukrainian troops have breached the first line of defense held by the occupiers.
According to analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), the Ukrainian Armed Forces are gradually regaining positions in the Bahmut direction. In particular, they have advanced to the east of Nevelske in the Donetsk region and to the west of Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia region.
Meanwhile, the Russian defense industry complex faces increasing difficulties due to a shortage of components for precision weaponry.
