Russian forces have made considerable progress in the southern part of Ukraine, particularly around the village of Novopokrovka in the Zaporizhzhia region, according to statements from Kremlin-installed officials.
Yevgeny Balitsky, the Moscow-backed head of the occupied Zaporizhzhia region, reported on Telegram about the advancements. "I'm in constant contact with our units... The situation is always tense, but not only do our guys continue to hold the line of defense, but they're also gradually moving forward," Balitsky stated.
Novopokrovka is strategically located about 20 kilometers east of Robotyne, a village that Kyiv had recaptured in the summer.
However, maintaining control over this area has been challenging for Ukrainian forces. The recent Russian advances pose additional threats to Ukraine's control of Robotyne, especially since Russian forces now control territory to the west, south, and east of the village.
Ukraine's military reported on Tuesday that Russian attacks have been occurring all along the frontline, including in the southern region.
The Ukrainian defense forces claimed to have repelled three enemy attacks in the Zaporizhzhia area, specifically north of Pryutne and west of Novopokrovka.
The recapture of Robotyne by Kyiv in August was a significant moment in Ukraine's counteroffensive, showcasing their ability to regain territory previously lost to Moscow. However, the momentum of Ukraine's push to reclaim lost territories appears to have stalled in recent times.
Russia has maintained control over large parts of the Zaporizhzhia region since its invasion of Ukraine last year. Despite this, the regional capital has been retaken by Kyiv, marking a significant shift in control within the region.
