Ukrainian authorities have recently declared a remarkable advancement in the ongoing conflict with Russian occupiers. They have successfully regained control over three small settlements located in the eastern region of Donetsk.
Following a week of relative silence regarding their military campaign to reclaim Ukrainian territory, the Ukrainian armed forces have achieved their first tangible gains amidst fierce fighting across multiple sectors of the front.
While the operation is anticipated to be extensive, current reports indicate that it primarily comprises calculated probing attacks and tactical maneuvers. Encouragingly, at least three of these maneuvers have yielded successful outcomes.
In a momentous display of valor and resilience, the 68th Brigade of Ukraine proudly raised the nation’s blue-and-yellow flag over the village of Blahodatne in Donetsk. Simultaneously, Ukrainian forces, with their unwavering determination, reclaimed control over the neighboring village of Makarivka, as confirmed by the Deputy Defense Minister. Additionally, the Ukrainian Volunteer Army reported the liberation of the adjacent settlement, Neskuchne.
A stirring video shared on Facebook by the 68th Brigade showcases an unidentified soldier expressing his profound sentiments, ”The feeling of our enemy being expelled from our home country is inexpressible. We will surely win this battle.”
While independent verification of these claims is currently pending, it is important to acknowledge that Ukraine has endured undeniable losses in both personnel and equipment during the past week of counteroffensive maneuvers.
Moreover, the extent of the reclaimed territories and their proximity to the initial lines of Russian defenses remains unclear, necessitating cautious observation to determine if Ukraine has successfully breached these fortified positions.
Notably, after months of speculation, it is evident that the long-awaited Ukrainian counteroffensive has commenced, if not in its entirety. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky affirmed this during an unexpected meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, stating, “The operation is underway, though I cannot disclose its detailed progression at this stage.”
