More Ukrainian advances in the last 24 hours, although nothing major. Seems like a gradual ratcheting up in pressure, rather than a new phase.
Offensive operations continued around the salient to the south of Velka Novosilka. Looks like at least two more villages recaptured and fighting is going on for four or five more. Reports are the main Ukrainian force was the 37th Marine Brigade, which includes some western equipment (AMX-10 RC, Mastiff and MRAP variants). Russian sources are claiming Leopards were also seen/killed, but they may be mis-identifying things. Lots of Russian military bloggers talking about 'taking back' villages that the Russian MoD is still claiming its forces are holding onto.
Small advances were made north and south of Bakhmut. There was reportedly hard going against Russian naval infantry. Ukraine's deputy defense minister is quoted as saying that for the moment the main effort is there and Ukrainian forces are operating on a "fairly wide front". Advances of 100m to 1700m reported in these areas.
Also interesting is that some Ukrainian channels are talking about special operations forces, hinting that they're operating deep behind Russian lines in significant strength.Prior to the last week, I've seen very little talk about SOF. One Ukrainian channel stated that a "night work" phase is about to start up. Another attributed some recent longer ranged GMLRS strikes on ammo stores and military barracks as thanks to special forces work.
www.abc.net.au
