Current Ukrainian army’s actions force Russia to transfer reserves - Serhiy Zgurets

Front line situation 

The situation on the front line can be summarized as follows: The Armed Forces of Ukraine are carrying out offensive actions in several directions, particularly in the south. According to Commander Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, our troops are making progress and have already eliminated more than 500 Russian soldiers in one day. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine also confirmed that our forces continue to advance in the Melitopol and Berdyansk sectors.

In the Melitopol direction, our troops are moving from Pyatykhatky to Zherebyanka, aiming to reach Vasylivka, an important stronghold. However, the enemy is currently launching counterattacks in Pyatykhatky, and Zherebyanka poses a challenge due to its elevated position. Advancing south of Orikhiv towards the enemy's defense line, which is heavily mined, is also proving to be difficult.

Moving on to the Berdyansk direction, our forces are advancing south from the already liberated Makarivka, targeting the line from Novodarivka to Novodonetske via Rivnopil and Staromayorske. We are attempting to overcome the ridge in the Rivnopil area, which is situated at a higher altitude, using our artillery to repel enemy attempts to hold the settlement. Fierce fighting is ongoing in Urozhaine, south of Makarivka.

Currently, all the actions carried out by the Ukrainian Armed Forces are taking place on the southern front, before the enemy's main defense forces reach the fortifications of the so-called Surovikin line. These actions are being conducted without the involvement of operational reserves, and it is possible that this tactical approach will continue for some time. This strategy aims to weaken the enemy's forces and compel them to use their reserves.

Moreover, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, Oleksiy Danilov, stated that the current objective of the Armed Forces is to neutralize the enemy's artillery, which is currently being achieved and reflected in the statistics. In terms of enemy manpower, they have suffered a significant loss of 1,100 Russian soldiers today, marking a record in terms of the destruction of enemy forces in one day. The enemy has resorted to counterattacks, employing artillery, repeated mining in specific areas, and utilizing attack drones like the Lancet and Ka-52 helicopters. However, our Armed Forces have successfully shot down five Ka-52 helicopters within the past seven days.

In the Bakhmut sector, Ukrainian units are trying to remove the enemy from strategic high ground positions.

Pryvyd, the commander of the Pryvydy (“Ghosts”) sniper platoon of the presidential brigade, noted that the Bakhmut area is quite extensive. Some areas are currently quiet and stable, while there are other places where fighting is happening. Both sides are focused on defensive actions. Situation in his direction is under control and remains stable. 

He emphasized the effectiveness of working in groups. A group is not just a sniper; it also includes units responsible for cover, positioning, and retreat, as well as an evacuation team. These fighters work together in harmony. Working in groups in the Bakhmut area has always been challenging, primarily due to the distance involved. Snipers operate at both short and long ranges. In Bakhmut, the challenge is to minimize the distance to 150-200 meters. 

He also noted that sometimes snipers work from as far as 2400 meters, depending on the task at hand. The main objective is to provide cover for assault units and engage targets from positions 200-300 meters away. Snipers receive versatile training to adapt to different conditions and distances. They assess the situation and choose the best positions for their work. 

Pryvyd added that the main weapon used is the Ukrainian UAR-10 rifle, which is highly effective at short distances. Additionally, there is the Barrett MRAD caliber 338, designed for distances up to 1,500 meters. The highlight is the Barrett M82, which allows engaging targets up to 2,400 meters away. The UAR-10 rifle is popular due to its reliable performance and versatility. It's a simple two-part design that is quick to disassemble, and any issues can be addressed on the battlefield. Its effective range is 800 meters. Some soldiers equipped with thermal sights can engage targets at a distance of 1100-1200 meters, which is exceptional. 

Veterans support

Let's also talk about other areas where we need to ensure strong support. One important area is addressing the challenges faced by our growing number of war veterans as they transition to civilian life. The Ukrainian Veterans Foundation (UVF) plays a crucial role in tackling these issues.

According to Ruslana Velychko-Tryfoniuk, the UVF's first deputy executive director, the fund focuses on assisting war veterans, their families, and the families of fallen defenders. One common problem the fund addresses is helping veterans navigate the process of accessing social benefits. When veterans encounter difficulties dealing with government institutions, they can seek legal advice from the UVF.

The UVF's head also mentioned the recent launch of the Veteran's Assistant Institute by the government. Initially, this project will operate in four regions: Vinnytsia, Lviv, Mykolaiv, and Dnipropetrovsk. These regions will have dedicated veteran assistants who will aid in benefit registration and provide necessary guidance and consultations.

She also highlighted that the UVF maintains a crisis support hotline that any military personnel can call to receive assistance from psychologists. The hotline is staffed by veteran psychologists, making it easier for military personnel to reach out to someone who understands their experiences. Additionally, the fund offers support programs for micro- and macro-financing of businesses.