Ukraine’s top commander inspects frontline positions, makes key decisions for Kupyansk defense

The Military Media Center reported the information.

"Due to the aggravation of the situation in the Kupyansk direction, I spent most of the day working in the units that are defending the outskirts of the city. The enemy is trying to break through the defense of our troops with assault units, manned mainly by convicts, every day, in different directions, aiming to block and then capture Kupyansk," said Syrskyi.

"Following the results of work with commanders in this area, a number of important decisions were made that will ensure the reliability of defense," he added.

Situation in the Lyman direction

According to Syrskyi, Russian troops are regrouping in the area. They are substituting units that have suffered significant losses in combat and are maintaining their intention to launch new offensives.

"Our task is to make the most of this situation and significantly improve our position. My commanders and I have worked out the necessary decisions directly in the combat zone," noted the Land Forces Commander.

Situation in the Bakhmut direction

According to Syrskyi, the situation is difficult but under control.

"The enemy is counterattacking, mining, intensively shelling and using aviation. However, in such difficult conditions Ukrainian troops are gradually advancing," said the general.

He discussed with the commanders of the brigades leading the defense in this area the urgent issues of increasing the effectiveness of offensive operations, fire damage and a number of other measures aimed at achieving victory.

• On August 16, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defense Hanna Maliar reported that the Ukrainian military had completely liberated Urozhayne, Donetsk region. Ukrainian Defense Forces are consolidating their positions.