International

Ukrainian forces make gains in southern Ukraine

Ukrainian forces have made incremental gains in their counteroffensive in southern Ukraine, advancing beyond Russian defensive lines in the Zaporozhye region, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Geolocated images show that Ukrainian forces have advanced to positions beyond the anti-tank ditches and "dragon's teeth" obstacles that form the first line of Russian defence in the area.

The ISW says that these advances are likely to be followed by further attacks against the second line of Russian defence, which is believed to be weaker.

The Ukrainian general leading the counteroffensive, Oleksandr Tarnavsky, said on the weekend that his forces had broken through the first Russian defensive line and were expecting a faster advance.

The ISW says that the Ukrainian gains are significant, but that it is too early to say whether they will lead to a decisive breakthrough.

The Ukrainian military is facing a number of challenges, including Russian air superiority and the need to maintain supply lines over long distances.

The ISW says that the outcome of the battle in southern Ukraine will likely depend on the ability of the Ukrainian forces to overcome these challenges.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

X