Russians intensifying offensive operations in Siversk, Bakhmut sectors - Syrskyi

The Ukrainian Ground Forces' press service said this in a post on Facebook, Ukrinform reports.

"The situation on the eastern front remains difficult. The enemy is increasing the intensity of offensive operations in the Siversk and Bakhmut sectors," Syrskyi said.

On the Siversk axis, the enemy continues offensive actions in order to improve its tactical position and create conditions for the development of the offensive in the direction of Siversk.

The enemy's assault groups, with the active support of mortar and artillery units, made unsuccessful attempts to attack Ukrainian positions in the direction of Kreminna and Hryhorivka.

"At the same time, the enemy compensates for its failures in offensive actions by increasing the intensity of the fire impact. In particular, in the last two days, the enemy has been actively shelling the city with jet artillery, using air strikes and kamikaze drones," Syrskyi said.

"In the Bakhmut sector, the aggressor is carrying out offensive operations, trying to break through our defenses north and west of Bakhmut and develop an offensive on Chasiv Yar. They are regrouping their forces and equipment and using units of the 'volunteer corps.' They are unsuccessfully trying to recapture positions near Klishchiivka and Andriivka," Syrskyi added.

Due to the lack of tactical success in certain sectors, the enemy temporarily switched to the defensive, while keeping the assault groups ready for the offensive.

The commander noted that "our headquarters and commanders respond promptly to any changes in the operational situation."