Successfully Seizing Staromaiorske, Ukrainian Troops Are Called Getting Closer to the Russian Defense Line

JAKARTA - The Ukrainian army has successfully recaptured the southeastern village of Staromaiorske from Russian troops in the Donetsk region, according to a video published by President Volodymyr Zelensky shown on Thursday.

"The 35th Brigade and territorial defense unit 'Ariy' have fulfilled their task and liberated Staromaiorske Village. Glory to Ukraine!" said a soldier in a video, citing Reuters, July 28.

The village lies to the south of a group of small settlements that were recaptured by the Ukrainians, during a counteroffensive that began in early June against Russian forces that control parts of southern and eastern Ukraine.

"Our fighters are now continuing to clear settlements," said Ukraine's Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar who said Staromaiorske had been freed.

Meanwhile, Oleksandr Kovalenko, a Ukrainian military analyst, said Ukrainian troops now needed to reach another village, Staromlynivka, less than 5 km away.

"It really served as a stronghold of the Russian invaders, the pinnacle of the second line of defense at this location," he said in an interview with RBC UA media.

"Therefore, the process is completely logical, first, take Staromayorske, stabilize the flanks, and advance to the second line, where the main strike group will be deployed to break through," he explained.

Russian forces were firmly entrenched in the strategically important southern region where they had set up an extensive network of trenches, minefields, anti-tank trenches and “dragon tooth” barricade lines.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday, Ukrainian attacks in the south had increased.

President Zelensky himself has admitted progress in the counterattack has been slower than desired, but last night touted "very good results" from the front, without providing details.