Ukrainian Forces Break Through Russian Defences in South, Advance Towards Sea of Azov
ORIKHIV AREA, Ukraine – Ukrainian forces have reportedly broken through the most difficult line of Russian defences in the south and are now able to advance more quickly, according to a commander fighting in the region.
Since launching a counteroffensive in June, Ukrainian forces have faced resistance from well-prepared Russian defence lines, including minefields, which have slowed their southward advance towards the Sea of Azov. However, the recent breakthrough in the southern Zaporizhzhia region is expected to pave the way for further progress.
In the settlement of Robotyne, Ukrainian forces raised the national flag, marking a significant milestone in their campaign. The town is located about 10 km south of the frontline town of Orikhiv and serves as a strategic hub for further advances towards the Sea of Azov.
“We don’t stop here,” said the commander known by the callsign “Skala,” who led troops into Robotyne. He emphasized that their ultimate goal is not Robotyne but the Sea of Azov. The town of Berdiansk, about 100 km from Robotyne, is their immediate objective, followed by the strategic city of Melitopol, which is situated 85 km away. Both Berdiansk and Melitopol are currently occupied by Russian forces following last year’s invasion.
While Ukrainian forces claim success in the region, Moscow has not confirmed the advancement into Robotyne. A U.S. official previously expressed skepticism about Ukrainian forces’ ability to retake Melitopol in their counteroffensive.
Defending Ukraine’s strategy, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy dismissed concerns about stretched resources and asserted his belief that all Ukrainian territory seized by Moscow will be regained. He stated that Ukrainian forces have overcome heavily mined main roads and will now be able to move more quickly towards their objectives.
Skala noted that only two houses in Robotyne remain under Russian control, and Ukrainian troops are currently battling to gain control of them. He expressed confidence that Russian defences in the upcoming territories would not be as difficult to penetrate.
“We are moving on to liberate all our territories,” Skala declared.
The developments in southern Ukraine indicate a notable advancement by Ukrainian forces, but the situation remains fluid. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to pose a threat to regional stability, and it is unclear how Moscow will respond to Ukrainian advances.
Reporting by Vladyslav Smilianets
Writing by Pavel Polityuk
Editing by Timothy Heritage, David Gregorio, and Frances Kerry
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.