KYIV: Ukrainian forces have announced the successful retaking of a village in the southeastern part of the country, marking the first reported gain of their ongoing offensive. The ground forces of Ukraine stated that the 68th separate ranger brigade had “liberated the settlement of Blagodatne” in the Donetsk region.
In a video released by the ground forces, soldiers can be seen carrying the Ukrainian flag into a building that has been destroyed by the conflict. Valeriy Shershen, a military spokesman, confirmed that the village was located on the border of Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions, where heavy Ukrainian assaults have been reported in recent days.
According to Shershen, Ukrainian forces captured several Russian and pro-Russian troops during the operation, further emphasizing the success of the offensive. The Ukrainian flag has been hoisted over Blagodatne, symbolizing the reclaimed territory.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously announced a counteroffensive against Russian forces but refrained from disclosing specific details. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Kyiv’s offensive had already begun but was destined to fail.
The retaking of Blagodatne represents a significant milestone for Ukrainian forces as they continue their efforts to regain control of territories in the war-torn southeastern region. The situation remains fluid, with both sides engaged in intense clashes and the potential for further escalations.
