KYIV- Ukraine reported significant progress in its counteroffensive against Russian forces on Monday, announcing the liberation of the south-eastern settlement of Robotyne. The Ukrainian military’s efforts to advance further south are aimed at splitting Russian forces following Moscow’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Last week, Ukrainian troops successfully raised the national flag in the strategically important settlement of Robotyne, situated 10 km (six miles) south of the frontline town of Orikhiv in the Zaporizhzhia region. Despite the liberation, mopping-up operations were ongoing to ensure complete control over the area.
Ukrainian military authorities believe that their forces have successfully penetrated the most formidable lines of Russian defenses in the southern region. This achievement is expected to expedite their southward advance toward the Sea of Azov.
Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar affirmed the liberation of Robotyne, stating, “Robotyne has been liberated.” The settlement’s location holds significance, as it lies on a crucial road leading to Tokmak, a Russian-occupied road and rail hub. The capture of Tokmak would mark a significant milestone in Ukraine’s strategic military campaign.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence shared a video on the social media platform X, featuring soldiers describing the liberation of Robotyne and raising the national flag in the settlement. A Ukrainian soldier in the video declared, “The blue and yellow flag will be raised in every Ukrainian village.”
While Ukraine reports their advances, Russia has not confirmed these developments. Russia’s defence ministry issued a statement mentioning that Moscow’s forces had successfully repelled attacks near Robotyne and Verbove by Kyiv’s troops. According to a military spokesperson, Ukrainian forces were reinforcing their positions within the liberated settlement, engaging in stabilisation measures, demining operations, and preparation for further actions.
Ukrainian television reported that Kyiv’s troops, engaged in the counteroffensive since early June, were now progressing southeast of Robotyne and to the south of Mala Tokmachka.
With contributions from AFP
