By Mustafa Deveci
BALAKLIIA, Ukraine (AA) - Normalcy crept to the city of Balakliia after it was recaptured by Ukrainian forces, however, the traces of war remain.
A counter-offensive launched by the Ukrainian army against Russian forces in the Kharkiv region in the south continues.
The city of Balakliia is among over 30 settlements in the region.
The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement on Saturday that they are retreating from Balakliia and Izium cities "to achieve the goals of the special operation."
Footage recorded by Anadolu Agency team showed that access to the newly recaptured city is difficult as the roads leading to the city and the bridges in the city center have been destroyed.
The charred remains of some vehicles line the roads.
- Ukrainian flags waving again
After regaining control, Ukrainian flags were hoisted on government buildings in the city.
Footage also revealed that some shops have reopened and children were playing in the playgrounds.
Residents are happy that they can spend the day without the sound of bombs or explosions.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, 42-year-old Yulya Viktorovna said she went to the city center to take a photo with her daughter.
"We were very happy that (Ukrainian forces) rescued us. We shed tears of joy when we watched the news. These six months have been very difficult," she said.
Viktorovna went on to say that people cannot even imagine what they have been through in the city during the last six months under Russian control.