Ukraine's Counteroffensive Gains Momentum Against Russian Forces
Russian forces continue to strike Ukrainian regions, with attacks reported in the Kharkiv and Belgorod regions. Ukrainian forces have also made gains in the Berdyansk direction, advancing over 1 kilometer along the front line. Intensive fighting is ongoing in various areas, including Avdiyivka, Maryinka, and Bakhmut. The battles are part of Ukraine's counteroffensive to retake Russian-occupied territory. Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized the US provision of cluster munitions to Ukraine and warned of reciprocal action. Meanwhile, a UN-brokered deal to export Ukrainian grain through Black Sea ports is nearing expiration.