Welcome to the latest update on the Russia-Ukraine War, Day 473! The conflict continues to escalate, with some of the bloodiest battles unfolding as Russia maintains its invasion of Ukraine. In this article, we strive to provide you with the most authentic and up-to-date information available. Today, we bring you news of Ukrainian defenders' remarkable achievements, as they successfully eliminated 980 Russian invaders and dealt a significant blow by destroying 17 tanks and 24 armoured combat vehicles.
Frontline Reports:
The brave soldiers of the 68th Separate Hunting Brigade, named after Oleksy Dovbush, in collaboration with neighbouring units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, successfully liberated the settlement of Blagodatne in the Donetsk region from Russian occupation. This significant achievement was announced through a Facebook post by the brigade, revealing the capture of Russian military personnel.
Furthermore, the armed forces of Ukraine achieved another major victory by freeing the village of Neskuchne in the Donetsk region from the clutches of Russian invaders. This relentless effort displayed the unwavering determination of the Ukrainian troops in defending their homeland.
Shift in Enemy Forces:
Hanna Malyar, Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine, disclosed that the enemy forces were observed relocating their most combat-capable units from the Kherson direction to the Zaporizhzhya and Bakhmut directions. Notably, these units primarily consisted of marines, airborne troops, and the 49th Army. Such a tactical shift highlights the evolving dynamics of the conflict and the need for vigilance from the Ukrainian defence forces.
Frontline Developments:
In the Lyman direction, the enemy conducted offensive actions in the Bilogorivka area, while the General Staff of the Armed Forces encountered difficulties in the direction of Bakhmut, particularly in the White Mountain region. Fortunately, the enemy did not carry out any offensive operations in the Avdiyiv direction. On the other hand, our defenders in the Mariinsky direction successfully repelled all enemy attacks, showcasing their resolute commitment to protecting Ukrainian territory. The enemy forces adopted a defensive stance in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson directions.
Local Successes in Zaporizhzhia:
Ukrainian forces operating in the western part of the Zaporizhzhia region achieved local successes through counterattacks in the areas southwest and southeast of Orikhov. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) confirmed these gains with geolocation footage from June 10, underscoring the effectiveness of the Ukrainian counteroffensive.
Air Defense Forces Neutralize Threats:
In a significant triumph, the Ukrainian air defence forces successfully destroyed six Shahed drones during the night. These drones were deployed by the Russian military, who launched attacks in the Kharkiv and Sumy regions. This decisive action by the Ukrainian Air Force demonstrated their ability to safeguard front-line zones and protect Ukrainian territory.
Elimination of Enemy Column:
The defense forces effectively neutralized a column of enemy vehicles in the occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia region. The Russians suffered substantial losses, including the destruction of three artillery systems, two fuel tanks, and eight units of various equipment. Notably, a truck containing ammunition was also seized during the operation, dealing a significant blow to the enemy's logistics.
Partisan Disruption and Explosions:
Partisans in the Yakymivka settlement, located in the temporarily occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia region, successfully detonated a railway bridge used by the occupiers to supply weapons from Crimea. This act of sabotage disrupted the enemy's supply lines, impeding their ability to reinforce their positions.
Meanwhile, an explosion occurred on the railway section between Dzhankoy and Kerch in the temporarily occupied Crimea, resulting in the suspension of train services in the area. In another incident, explosions were heard near the port of Berdyansk. The occupiers claimed that a rocket had been shot down, causing concern and raising questions about the situation.
Alleged Naval Drone Attack:
Mass media reported that Russia accused Ukraine of attempting to attack the Black Sea Fleet's ship "Priazovya" with six naval drones. The alleged incident took place approximately 300 kilometers from Sevastopol. However, the Ukrainian side has not provided any comment regarding this claim, leaving the situation shrouded in uncertainty.
Successes in Taurian Direction:
According to General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of the operational and strategic group of troops in the "Tavria" region, Russian troops suffered significant casualties in the Taurian direction, losing nearly five companies due to Ukrainian defensive actions. The defense forces of the Tavria direction executed 1,520 fire missions, resulting in the destruction and damage of 68 units of Russian military equipment. Notably, the losses included five tanks, thirteen BMPs, four BBMs, an APC, two MTLBs, the howitzer 2C19 "Msta-S," four self-propelled artillery "Akatsiya" vehicles, an unmanned aerial vehicle "Orlan-10," an unmanned aerial vehicle "Supercam," four "Hyacinth-B" cannons, and a "Zhitel" rocket launcher. Additionally, three enemy ammunition warehouses were destroyed, further debilitating the Russian forces.
Continued Prisoner Exchange:
Ukraine continued its regular exchange of prisoners, returning an additional 95 defenders. Among those released were soldiers from the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, and the border guards. This humanitarian effort emphasized Ukraine's commitment to ensuring the well-being of its military personnel.
Targeted Shelling:
Over the past day, Russian forces relentlessly shelled nine regions of Ukraine, inflicting damage and casualties. The community of Marganets in the Dnipropetrovsk region was struck by heavy artillery fire, while the Kherson region faced 41 instances of shelling, involving mortars, artillery, Grads, UAVs, and aviation. As a result, five individuals sustained injuries. In the Donetsk region, eight residents fell victim to enemy attacks. In the Kharkiv region, Russian troops targeted the main ammonia pipeline in the Kupyansky district, although there was no ammonia leak or immediate threat to people's safety.
Border Regions Under Fire:
According to the Operational Command "North," the enemy forces engaged in shelling attacks across the border regions of Sumy Oblast, resulting in 43 explosions. These provocations highlight the ongoing volatility and the need for heightened vigilance in border areas.
Infrastructure Damage and Civilian Casualties:
In a regrettable development, the occupiers blew up the dam on the Mokri Yala River in the Donetsk region, causing flooding on both sides of the river. Despite this disruptive act, the Defense Forces of the Tavrya direction remain undeterred in conducting their offensive operations. Additionally, the armed aggression of the Russian Federation has inflicted severe harm on innocent civilians, with more than 1,502 children injured, and tragically, 487 children losing their lives. The Prosecutor General's Office shared these distressing figures, underscoring the dire humanitarian consequences of the conflict.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyi of Ukraine recently engaged in a significant meeting with Mariam Almheiri, the Minister of Climate Change and Environment from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The purpose of the meeting was to address the environmental aftermath caused by Russian activities in Ukraine and discuss the progress of the Ukrainian Peace Formula and the Reconstruction Plan of Ukraine. The head of state's press service confirmed the encounter, highlighting the importance of cooperation between the two nations on these critical matters.
On The International Front:
Prime Minister Shmyhal Discusses Humanitarian Demining and Grain Initiative with UAE Minister
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal also participated in discussions with Mariam Almheiri, the UAE Minister of Climate and Environment. The meeting revolved around key topics such as humanitarian demining efforts, the Grain from Ukraine initiative, and the President of Ukraine's Peace Formula. Media outlets reported on the fruitful exchange, emphasizing the shared interests and commitment to collaboration between Ukraine and the UAE on these pressing issues.
Ukraine's Path to NATO Membership Receives Support from 20 Countries
Ukraine's aspiration to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has garnered support from 20 countries. However, the consent of 31 states is necessary for Kyiv to become a member of the alliance. This information was revealed by Ihor Zhovkva, the Deputy Head of the Office of the President. The statement highlights the ongoing efforts and diplomatic manoeuvring required for Ukraine to achieve its NATO membership objectives.
African States Seek Mediation Role in Ukraine-Russia Conflict
A group of six African states has expressed its intention to mediate between Ukraine and Russia in an attempt to bring an end to the ongoing conflict. Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, made this announcement, though the specific details of the proposed mediation remain unclear. Bloomberg reported on the African leaders' offer, signalling potential diplomatic opportunities to explore for a peaceful resolution.
Ukrainian Defenders Receive Czech Anti-Aircraft Guns to Counter Iranian Drones
Ukraine's defenders have acquired Czech anti-aircraft guns named "Viktor," known for their effectiveness against Iranian kamikaze drones. Lieutenant General Serhiy Naev, the commander of the United Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, disclosed details about these new weapons. The addition of these advanced defense systems aims to bolster Ukraine's capabilities in countering drone threats and strengthening its military forces.
UK Foreign Secretary Accuses Iran of Supplying Ammunition to Russia
James Cleverley, the head of the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs, made a startling accusation, claiming that Iran had been supplying ammunition to Russia. British media outlets reported on the statement, reflecting heightened concerns regarding potential collaboration between the two countries. The revelation raises questions about the implications of such cooperation on the global stage.
Russia Allegedly Creating Obstacles to Sweden's NATO Accession
Thomas Nilsson, the head of Swedish military intelligence, has voiced concerns over Russia's active efforts to hinder Sweden's path to joining NATO. According to Nilsson, Russia's official special services and their proxies are behind these obstructionist actions. The Swedish Television (SVT) reported on the intelligence chief's remarks, highlighting the complex dynamics surrounding Sweden's NATO aspirations.
Essity, a Leading Swedish Manufacturer, Ceases Operations in Russia
Essity, a prominent global manufacturer of personal hygiene and medical products based in Sweden, has officially announced the termination of its operations in Russia. The company's decision to withdraw from the Russian market was confirmed through an update on its official website. The development reflects evolving economic considerations and changing business strategies for Essity.
Polish Farmers Temporarily Halt Border Protest, Compensation Promised
Farmers in Poland temporarily suspended their protest at the Dorohusk border crossing in the Lublin Voivodeship. The demonstration had been prompted by grievances over decreased grain purchase prices and unregulated influx of Ukrainian grain into the Polish market. However, reports indicate that in June, farmers will receive initial compensation to address the financial losses they have suffered. This move demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of Polish farmers and finding a resolution to the ongoing issues.