Russians increasing pace of offensive in Slobozhanskyi and Donetsk directions – defense ministry

Oleksandr Motuzianyk, a spokesman for the Ukrainian Defense Ministry, said this at a briefing at Ukrinform.

"The enemy is conducting an offensive operation in the Eastern Operational Zone. The main goal of the enemy remains to establish full control over the territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions and to provide a land corridor to occupied Crimea with the occupied territory of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. The enemy increases the pace of the offensive operation," Motuzianyk said.

According to him, Russian forces focused their offensive activities in Slobozhanskyi and Donetsk directions.

Moreover, the enemy forces are preparing additional units to take part in hostilities in Ukraine. In addition, missile and air strikes on military and civilian targets throughout Ukraine continue.

"Operational and tactical aviation of the Russian Federation conducted 138 sorties, including at least 38 sorties aimed to destroy objects in Kharkiv and Donetsk regions," the spokesman added.

As reported, between February 24 and April 27, the enemy’s total combat losses included about 22,400 personnel, 939 tanks, 2,342 armored fighting vehicles, 421 artillery systems, 149 multiple launch rocket systems, 71 anti-aircraft warfare systems, 185 aircraft, 155 helicopters, 1,666 motor vehicles, eight boats/cutters, 76 fuel tanks, 207 unmanned aerial vehicles, 31 special equipment units and four mobile SRBM systems.

Data on losses are being clarified as the calculation is complicated by the high intensity of hostilities.