Ukraine’s armed forces moving forward “confidently” – Ministry of Defense

Russian troops have densely mined the territories and are increasing the number of shelling on the front, trying to stop the Ukrainian offensive, but Ukraine's armed forces are confidently advancing.

Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine Hanna Maliar said this on the air of the Yedyny Novyni telethon, Ukrinform reports.

"For example, in the south, our troops are currently facing continuous mining of fields, so it is very difficult to advance. It may be slow if you look at the numbers, but this advance is sure. We also face the fact that the enemy is actively using ATGMs and kamikaze drones, also trying to stop our offensive and inflict various damages," she said.

Maliar stated that, as of now, Ukrainian forces are employing offensive and defensive tactics across various fronts.

"In fact, we have a very tough duel when we are using our efforts as much as possible, and the enemy is concentrating as much as possible to stop this [Ukrainian – ed.] offensive. There is a severe confrontation going on. The enemy is now increasing the number of shelling – inflicting more artillery, mortar, and airstrikes and thus tries to stop our offensive," the deputy minister said.

She reported that no advance of the Russian Federation was recorded for the past week and two days this week.

"That is, where the enemy is trying to advance – say, the Bakhmut front – we are also trying to advance there. We are advancing, they are not, because our troops do not give him such an opportunity," said Maliar.

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As reported, according to the General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces, the Russian invaders are concentrating their main efforts on the Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiivka, and Mariinka fronts; 39 combat clashes occurred there during the day, and the fighting continues.