Advancement is difficult for Ukrainian troops, as Russia is doing everything possible to stop their offensive — Ukraine’s Defense Ministry 

She stated this during the telethon.

According to Maliar, the Ukrainian defenders are facing difficulty in making progress because the enemy is putting up strong resistance. The deputy minister emphasized the need to be prepared for a tough battle, as the enemy will not surrender easily.

“Measuring the success of the defense forces should not be limited to population centers and distance traveled alone. There are other important criteria to evaluate the effectiveness of military operations. The ongoing operation has multiple objectives, and the military is carrying out these tasks according to plan. The most significant blows are still ahead,” Maliar highlighted.

The deputy minister also mentioned that the situation is “intense both in the eastern and southern regions.”

Previously, Hanna Maliar wrote on Telegram that the current situation in the east is difficult. 

“The enemy is concentrating its forces and launching active offensives in the Lyman and Kupiansk areas. There has been a noticeable increase in enemy shelling, and intense battles are ongoing,” the message said. 

Furthermore, the enemy is determined to reach the borders of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, making it their primary direction of attack. The Russians are focusing their main units, including amphibious assault forces, in that area.

“Despite facing a superior enemy force, our troops display courage and prevent the enemy from advancing,” added Maliar.

• On June 19, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense officially confirmed the liberation of Pyatykhatky village in the Zaporizhzhia region by Ukrainian military forces. Units in the Tavria direction have made advancements of up to 7 km.