Ukrainian troops have recaptured 160 square kilometres of land and seven villages in a major counteroffensive launched a few weeks in eastern Donetsk region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Thursday.
In a video address recorded during his visit to Donetsk, Zelenskiy spoke about intensive battles near Pokrovsk and Dobropillia in Donetsk sector. “The fighting is intense, but we managed to inflict significant losses on the Russians. In fact, our forces have deprived the occupiers of the ability to conduct the full-scale offensive operation they had long planned and counted on," Zelenskiy said. In addition, 1,70 kilometers of lands “have been cleaned of Russian invaders,” he added.
The Ukrainian leader claimed that Russian losses in Pokrovsk over recent weeks exceed 2,500, including more than 1,300 killed. In addition, Ukrainian army units have captured 100 Russian troops, liberated seven settlements, and cleared nine more settlements have been liberated during the counteroffensive in this part of the frontline, according to Zelenskiy.
"The operation continues as planned. This is an important success for Ukraine. I thank the Air Assault Forces, assault regiments and battalions, all our infantry, reconnaissance, artillery, and National Guard units. I thank everyone who provides the drone component," he said.
His remarks came amid frequent Ukrainian counteroffensive against Russian troops that have been making ground in the east of country in the past two years. Earlier this month, Ukraine reported recapturing one village and clearing two more villages from Russian troops in Donetsk region.
Elsewhere in his Thursday speech, Zelenskiy resumed calls for more military aid for his country and more vigorous sanctions against Russia.
"Russia must be forced into peace. Ukraine can achieve this with sufficient strength in our army, with sufficient long-range capabilities. The world can achieve this together with us — with strong sanctions against Russia, with strong pressure, just as strong as the strength of our people," Zelenskiy said.
