MoD: Russian military stockpiling reserves in east and south, fierce battles ongoing

"If we talk about Bakhmut direction, literally in the last two days, the enemy brought two air assault regiments there, strengthening their capabilities. That is, the confrontation is very serious," Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine Hanna Maliar said during the United News nationwide telethon, Ukrinform reports.

In addition, she emphasized that the Ukrainian troops are faced with continuous enemy minefields and remote mining in the south.

"Moreover, the enemy amasses serious reserves in the south," Maliar noted.

The official added that the Ukrainian forces went on the offensive in several directions in the east last week, mainly in Bakhmut, and had tactical success there.

As noted, the main battles there have taken place around Berkhivka and Klishchiyivka, heavy battles continued on the northern flank of Bakhmut, tactical successes and certain advances were made on the southern flank.

"But it must be said that the enemy is putting up very strong resistance. What our Armed Forces are facing is a very tough duel. The fact that the enemy is not advancing and we are still advancing only speaks of the professionalism, courage, and strength of our military," Maliar stressed.

She added that at the end of the week, the Russian Federation opened another direction of offensive – Svatove, trying to break through to Lyman. Fighting is ongoing in Nevske, Dibrove, and Bilohorivka, but the Russians are unable to implement their plans, just like in Maryinka and Avdiyivka.

According to the deputy minister, the Ukrainian forces are advancing in several directions in the south – Melitopol and Berdiansk.

"The words ‘fierce battles’ can be used to describe the entire situation of the past week both in the south and in the east," she summed up.