Ukrainian President Confirms Counteroffensive Against Russian Forces

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, confirmed that a 'counteroffensive and appropriate defensive actions' are underway against Russian forces, but did not provide many details about developments on the battlefronts against the Kremlin. Zelensky expressed optimism about the condition of Ukrainian defenders, stating, 'Everyone has a positive morale, let Putin know this.' In his nighttime speech regarding the eastern and southern fronts, he thanked all Ukrainian soldiers holding their positions and those advancing. In this context, the Chief of the General Staff of the Ukrainian Army said on Saturday that heavy fighting is ongoing in eastern Ukraine, particularly around Bakhmut and Marinka, with Ukrainian forces pushing back the Russians. According to him, Putin's army continues to suffer heavy casualties, which the Kremlin is trying to conceal. This senior military official stated that Russia has conducted 66 airstrikes and 39 missile attacks, resulting in casualties among Ukrainian civilians and damage to homes and civilian and administrative infrastructure. The British Ministry of Defense also reported on Saturday about major Ukrainian military operations on the eastern and southern fronts over the past 48 hours. According to this update, Ukrainian forces have made good progress and have managed to penetrate Russian defensive lines in some areas. Independent media have not yet been able to confirm the penetration of Ukrainian forces into Russian defensive lines. Zelensky: Ukrainian army's counteroffensive actions against Russian forces are ongoing. Ukraine claims to have advanced at the 'front line' in Bakhmut. The 'Freedom of Ukraine' orchestra in Europe; Putin has 'weaponized culture.' Destruction of a dam in Ukraine; 600 kilometers of the Kherson region submerged. The crisis of the destroyed dam in Ukraine and 17,000 displaced; Zelensky: Hundreds of thousands are deprived of drinking water.