Ukraine war: Latest developments on the ground in Ukraine

Synopsis

Defence analyst Dr. Alex Walmsley from the Royal United Services Institute discusses the recent developments in the Ukraine war. Ukrainian forces make significant advances, particularly around Kharkiv, which has changed hands multiple times during the 80-day conflict. They also gain ground in the south, especially around Donetsk, seizing abandoned Russian equipment due to surveillance support from Western allies. In Mariupol, the siege continues, while Russian troops attempt to move northwest towards Zaporizia, where evacuees from Mariupol are relocated. The situation in Mikolaiv sees intense fighting as both Ukrainian and Russian forces vie for control, with the Russians pushing west towards Odessa and Ukrainians aiming to maintain access to the sea. This ongoing conflict highlights the strategic importance of these regions in the war.