Akash SinghRussia Claims Victory in Halting Alleged Ukrainian Offensive in Donetsk
Russia’s defense ministry has announced that it successfully halted a major Ukrainian offensive in Donetsk. It has also alleged that 250 soldiers were killed and 16 armored vehicles were destroyed.
The earlier attack on Ukraine left many causalities and left thousands wounded.
Video footage released by Russia shows intense gunfire targeting military vehicles in open fields.
Independent verification of Russia’s claim is currently unavailable.
Responding to the allegation, Ukraine’s military refused any such allegation. It has also stated on Monday that it had no knowledge of any significant offensive in the region.
“We have no information regarding such an offensive and we decline to comment on any kind of fabricated reports,” stated a spokesperson for the Ukrainian army, according to Reuters.
Ukraine Launches Surprise Offensive
Kyiv had previously declared that it would not provide advance notice of its commencement. Ukrainian counter-offensive has been building was done while its anticipation.
Nevertheless, with Ukraine reporting minor gains in other areas along the front line, there has been a noticeable escalation in military activity.
Consequently, these recent reports are being interpreted as a fresh indication that the long-awaited Ukrainian offensive may have commenced.
According to the Russian defense ministry, Ukraine initiated a “large-scale offensive” on Sunday in the Donetsk region, utilizing six mechanized and two tank battalions.
Russia Claims Victory in Alleged Ukrainian Offensive
Russia alleges that the Ukrainian forces attempted to breach Russian defenses at what Kyiv perceived as the weakest point on the front line, but ultimately failed to achieve their objectives.
If the authenticity of the footage showing armored vehicles under heavy fire is confirmed, it serves as evidence of the formidable resistance that Ukrainian forces will encounter as they strive to liberate additional territory.
Even if the situation is not as it appears, Moscow’s intention to control the narrative is evident.
Ukraine has significantly intensified its messaging regarding the timing and strategy of its long-awaited counter-offensive.
For months, Ukraine has been meticulously planning its offensive, aiming to maximize training of troops and acquire military equipment from Western allies.
Kyiv Stresses Secrecy as Ukraine Considers Counter-Offensive Against Russia
Kyiv officials have emphasized the importance of refraining from public speculation about the offensive, as it could provide an advantage to the enemy.
In a video released on Telegram on Sunday, the defense ministry reinforced the need for secrecy, stating, “Plans thrive in silence. There will be no announcement of the commencement,” accompanied by footage showing masked and well-equipped soldiers signaling silence with their fingers on their lips.
The process of reclaiming territory seized by Russia as far back as nine years ago will inevitably take time for Ukraine to achieve its objective.
On the other hand, Moscow has also had ample time to prepare, suggesting that a Ukrainian counter-offensive, if executed, will require considerable effort and time.
The stakes are high, as the government in Kyiv seeks to demonstrate to the Ukrainian people and its Western allies that it can break through Russian lines, bring an end to the military deadlock, and regain sovereign territory.
Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi of Ukraine’s ground forces reported that troops are advancing towards Bakhmut and have successfully eliminated a Russian position near the city.
Anti-Government Fighters Capture Russian Soldiers near Ukrainian Border
In a separate development, anti-government fighters in Moscow captured Russian soldiers in Belgorod, a city near the Ukrainian border.
The Russian Volunteer Corps (RDK) and the Liberty of Russia Legion (FRL) declared their resistance to President Vladimir Putin and his all-out invasion of Ukraine, which began in February of the previous year.
Belgorod’s top official, Vyacheslav Gladkov, expressed willingness to meet the captors if the soldiers were alive. However, the fighters later stated that the governor “lacked the courage” to meet them and decided to hand over the captives to Ukraine.
While Russia accuses Ukraine of recent attacks in its border regions, Kyiv denies direct involvement.
According to authorities, a drone strike on Monday morning caused a fire at an energy plant in Belgorod.
Governor Vladislav Shapsha of Russia’s Kaluga region, which borders the southern districts around Moscow, stated that two drones fell onto a main road. He clarified that there was no explosion, and the area has been cordoned off.
There has been no independent confirmation of either attack, but Moscow alleges that the Belgorod region has been regularly targeted by drone attacks from Ukraine.
