The conflict in Eastern Ukraine intensifies as Russian forces register gains near the town of Svatove, according to a recent update from the Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister, Hanna Maliar.

As per her statement on Sunday, Ukrainian forces are continuing to resist the Russian onslaught in eastern areas and are facing challenges in the northeast.

Fierce fighting has erupted in the smaller villages south of Svatove, Bilohorivka and Serebrianka, regions known for active Russian forces, as reported by Maliar. Describing the situation as quite complicated, she revealed that Russian forces are also advancing near the cities of Avdiivka and Maryinka in the Donetsk region.

However, it’s not all bleak for the Ukrainian forces. Maliar mentioned progress near the ruined city of Bakhmut and on the southern front, where Ukrainian forces have reclaimed several villages. She indicated a steady advance in these two areas despite fierce enemy resistance, remote mining, and the redeployment of enemy reserves.

An analysis by CNN highlights the strategic importance of the town of Svatove, revealing that its recapture would be critical for Russia due to its location along key Russian supply routes. Contradictory reports from Russian front line accounts suggest Moscow’s forces have successfully repelled Ukrainian attacks in areas surrounding Bakhmut and further south, notably the hilltop town of Vuhlear.

Ukraine has asserted that its counter-offensive is progressing and the nation is making advances across all fronts. This involves reclaiming areas in the east and south seized by Russia during the invasion that began in February of the previous year. Ukraine also claims to have regained control over several villages in the southeast.

Despite Ukraine’s assertions, Russia continues to hold significant territories in the east, south, and southeast, and has not recognised Ukraine’s reported gains. Instead, Russia maintains that Ukraine’s military is suffering heavy casualties. Meanwhile, General Oleksander Tarnavskiy, who oversees the southern front, affirmed that Ukrainian forces were effectively neutralizing the enemy and reported significant Russian casualties in the past 24 hours.

  Bakhmut, Bilohorivka, Hanna Maliar, Russia, Serebrianka, Svatove, Ukraine