Russia pushes further into eastern Ukraine

Synopsis

Civilians in russian occupied eastern ukraine receive urgent warnings to evacuate as bombs and bloodshed loom. Ukraine's military prepares for a counterattack to reclaim territory still under russian control. However, military analysts suggest that these warnings may reflect an overabundance of caution, as Ukrainian forces await critical weapons deliveries that could take weeks. In the eastern region of Luhansk, approximately 95 percent is under russian control, with fierce fighting reported in several donetsk. Ukrainian forces manage to hold a chemical plant in the city, where around 500 civilians are believed to be sheltered. The Luhansk governor warns of an impending larger offensive from Russia, while western nations continue to supply Ukraine with heavy weaponry, including artillery and multiple rocket launcher systems. Germany has committed to providing seven high-tech mobile artillery units, which have now arrived in Ukraine, despite facing criticism for delays in military support.