Ukrainian Forces Making Gains in Kyiv’s Grinding Counteroffensive

Ukrainian forces have made significant gains in their ongoing counteroffensive against Russian occupiers, according to an updated map published by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). The map reveals that after nearly four months of intense fighting, Ukrainian operations have resulted in the severe degradation of critical elements of Russian defense in the western Zaporizhia region. Furthermore, recent advances by Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donetsk region have corresponded with the degradation of defending Russian units in the area.

Groundbreaking Operations Target Occupied Territory

Back in early June, Kyiv launched a long-anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim occupied territory. The operation has been meticulously planned, resulting in strategic advancements by Ukrainian forces. The success of this campaign is evident in the recent recapture of the village of Klishchiivka near the industrial city of Bakhmut, which has experienced some of the most intense fighting in the war. Ukrainian forces have also reclaimed the nearby village of Andriivka.

Strategic Importance of Reclaimed Territory

The significance of such territorial gains cannot be understated. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, stated that Klishchiivka and Andriivka were crucial elements of a Russian defensive line that Ukrainian forces have successfully breached. Additionally, the liberation of Klishchiivka will allow Ukrainian forces to control Russian ground lines of communication (GLOCs) supplying Russian troops in the Bakhmut area.

Securing Vital Supply Routes

By establishing fire control over the T0513 Bakhmut-Horlivka highway, Ukrainian forces significantly disrupt Russian supply routes in the region. This accomplishment strengthens Ukraine’s position and hinders the mobility and resupply efforts of Russian troops. Former Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar reported that Kyiv’s forces have liberated 5.1 square kilometers of territory in the Bakhmut direction in the past week alone.

Advancements in Zaporizhia

The Ukrainian counteroffensive is not limited to the Donetsk region. The Institute for the Study of War highlighted the geolocated footage indicating Ukrainian forces advancing in the western Zaporizhia region. The Ukrainian General Staff, along with Hanna Maliar, confirmed that Kyiv pressed ahead with its counteroffensive operations in the Melitopol direction. These operations have successfully pushed Russian forces out of several key positions. Maliar also mentioned unspecified successes east and south of the village of Robotyne, which Ukraine recaptured in late August.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing success of Ukraine’s counteroffensive is a testament to the determination and resilience of its forces. However, the conflict is far from over. Ukrainian forces continue to strategically plan and execute operations to reclaim more territory and further degrade Russian defenses. As the situation evolves, it is essential to closely monitor the developments on the ground.

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