Zelenskyy says Ukraine’s long-range strikes hit Russian territory, reports gains in Donetsk region

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday that Ukraine’s long-range strikes have reached Russian territory and reported battlefield developments in the Donetsk region.

In his address, Zelenskyy said a “Technological Staff” meeting will focus on strengthening the country’s drone and missile production, adding that he had discussed the issue with manufacturers and directed the Defense Ministry and military to take specific steps.

Zelenskyy further said Ukrainian forces are conducting operations near Pokrovsk and Dobropillia, claiming that 174 square kilometers (67 sq. miles) had been retaken and 194 square kilometers (74 sq. miles) cleared in ongoing operations.

He also noted attention was being given to Kupyansk, a contested area in northeastern Ukraine.

Russia did not immediately comment on the latest claim by Zelenskyy, however, earlier in the day, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that its forces had seized the settlement of Shandrigolovo in Ukraine’s Donetsk region.

Independent verification is difficult due to the ongoing war.