AFU in Bakhmut conducting not only defense operations, but also counterattacks – Syrskyi

Ukrainian Ground Forces Commander, Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi stated this, Ukrinform reports, referring to the Military Media Center.

Today, April 24, the commander is working in the areas of hostilities in the Lyman and Bakhmut sectors. Decisions on defense organization are made on the spot after listening to commanders' reports and analyzing the operational situation.

It is noted that the situation is currently under control.

"After some unsuccessful attempts to break through our defenses in the Lyman direction, the enemy suffered significant losses and was forced to regroup its units," Syrskyi said.

According to the commander, the situation in the Bakhmut sector remains difficult, heavy fighting is ongoing. In several settlements near Bakhmut, Russian offensive operations had no success.

At the same time, the invaders do stop attempt to encircle Bakhmut and use all possible forces and means for this, up to the total destruction of the city.

"Our fighters are not only conducting defensive actions in Bakhmut, but also actively counterattacking. This gives us the opportunity to hold back the enemy's offensive for several months and not increase the front in this sector, destroy their best units and buy time," the colonel-general noted.

Syrskyi also presented medals and valuable gifts to more than 130 soldiers who courageously performed their tasks and showed heroism.

 As reported by Ukrinform, the main efforts of the Russian army are focused on conducting offensive operations in the Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Maryinka sectors. Ukrainian forces repelled more than 60 enemy attacks over the past day.