Maliar: Russian troops advancing in some areas in Bakhmut

Fierce fighting is taking place in Bakhmut, Donetsk region, with Russian troops advancing in some areas.

Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said this on Telegram, commenting on the frontline reports as of April 21, Ukrinform reports.

She said, "if you look at the entire map of Ukraine, the situation is volatile and, in fact, this is how it should be perceived." The epicenter remains the East. There, Russia continues offensive actions in four directions at the same time - Maryinka, Avdiivka, Lyman, and Bakhmut.

"In most of them [ areas ], thanks to our defenders, the enemy is not able to advance. In these areas, our soldiers are not only defending themselves, but are also actively acting," said Malyar.

She noted that "Bakhmut remains the hottest spot. The enemy is making it so. Fierce fighting is taking place there. The enemy is attacking. They are destroying houses and buildings. In some areas, it is advancing in some places."

Hanna Maliar also added that Russia tried to move in two more directions this week - Kupyanske and Shakhtarske. But Ukrainian soldiers repelled the attacks, and Russia did not advance.

In addition, Russian troops continue to shell certain localities in Chernihiv, Sumy and Kharkiv regions.

"The enemy is on the defensive in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson directions. The situation is tense but under control. Decisions are made according to military expediency," said Maliar.

As Ukrinform reported, the aviation of the Defense Forces struck the areas of concentration of the Russian invaders six times yesterday.