Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukrainian forces have taken the “initiative” after making gains outside the eastern city of Bakhmut as part of a wider counteroffensive.
Stating that Ukraine is “advancing, albeit not as fast [as we would like]”, Mr Zelensky said: “We would all love to see the counteroffensive accomplished in a shorter period of time. But there is reality. Today, the initiative is on our side.”
On the 501st day of the war, Ukraine is attempting to retake territory and villages that were captured by Russia not long after its invasion began, to the east and south of the country.
It comes as US president Joe Biden is visiting the UK as part of a three-nation trip this week.
Before making his way to Windsor Castle, Biden will meet with Rishi Sunak in a session sure to be dominated by their continued efforts to back Ukraine.
The prime minister refused to back the US president on the question of providing Ukraine with cluster munitions and said the UK is one of 123 signatories of a convention banning the bombs because of their devastating impact on civilians.
