Ukraine’s defense forces advance on Bakhmut flanks

This was announced by the commander of the Ground Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi.

He shared a video showing the 17th tank brigade using an M-109 self-propelled gun to target an enemy tank.

Syrskyi mentioned that “the brigade also successfully engaged the Russian mortar.”

Deputy Minister of Defense Hanna Maliar reported that the situation in the Bakhmut direction has worsened.

“The ongoing struggle for control and initiative continues. The enemy attempted to advance but was unsuccessful, while our defense forces achieved some success. However, the situation changes rapidly, with control over positions being lost and regained multiple times a day. The enemy reacts actively to our actions and establishes three lines of defense in areas of threat,” she wrote. 

Hanna Maliar clarified that Ukrainian troops are engaging in battles on the southern flank in the Klishchiivka area, while fighting continues on the northern flank.

“The situation in Bakhmut itself is also turbulent. The enemy constantly fires within the city, attempting to disrupt our logistics and cause significant damage. Nevertheless, our defenders prevent the enemy from freely moving around the city and effectively counterattack their positions,” she added. 

• On the morning of July 3, Hanna Maliar reported that the Defense Forces continue to advance in the southern and eastern directions. In the past week, Ukrainian military forces have liberated approximately 38 square kilometers of territory.

• To learn about the current situation in different areas of the front as of the evening of July 3, refer to the latest summary from the General Staff of the Armed Forces.