Ukraine "Recaptures Makariv on Kyiv Outskirts"... Launches Counterattack Against Russia

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The Ukrainian military announced that it has succeeded in recapturing the Makariyu area in the suburbs of the capital Kyiv (Kiyev). As the Russian forces, which have suffered heavy casualties, faltered, the Ukrainian counterattack began, and clashes between the two sides are expected to intensify further.

According to the Associated Press on the 22nd (local time), the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense stated in a press release, "After fierce fighting, our forces have driven Russian troops out of Makariyu in the outskirts of Kyiv," adding, "The Ukrainian military has regained control of a key highway connecting to Kyiv, thereby preventing Russian forces from encircling the northwestern area of Kyiv."

It further emphasized, "Although Russian forces have seized some other suburban areas such as Bucha, Hostomel, and Irpin, they still have not been able to approach the urban center." With the main Russian forces concentrated on southern Black Sea coastal cities like Mariupol and Odesa, the Ukrainian counterattack against the stalled Russian troops in the northern region appears to have commenced.

Foreign Policy, a U.S. diplomatic journal, citing a U.S. Department of Defense official, reported that "after Russian forces lost more than 10% of their mobilized troops, the Ukrainian counterattack has intensified, and attacks are also underway in Izium near the Donbas region." According to Foreign Policy, the Russian military's supply situation has significantly deteriorated, struggling with fuel supplies not only for tanks and fighter jets but also for the Black Sea Fleet, and some soldiers are suffering from frostbite.

However, the situation in Mariupol, where the main Russian offensive is concentrated, is reportedly worsening. According to CNN, since the 1st, Mariupol has been bombarded by Russian forces, damaging over 80% of residential areas, and since the 4th, the city has been without electricity and water. Ukrainian authorities estimate that at least 2,500 people have died in Mariupol alone so far.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.