(MENAFN- UkrinForm) The head of state reported this in a video address recorded during his visit to the Donetsk region, according to Ukrinform.

"Right now, we are carrying out one of our counteroffensive operations - our guys are doing great - in the Donetsk sector, near Pokrovsk and Dobropillia. The fighting is intense, but we managed to inflict significant losses on the Russians. In fact, our forces have deprived the occupiers of the ability to conduct the full-scale offensive operation they had long planned and counted on," Zelensky said.

He added that while in the Donetsk region, he presented state awards - specifically for battlefield successes - to some of Ukraine's best soldiers who had distinguished themselves in recent weeks.

Read also: Zelensky meets soldiers taking part in Dobropillia counteroffensive in Donetsk region

Zelensky expressed gratitude to all those taking part in the counteroffensive operation.

"The operation continues as planned. This is an important success for Ukraine. I thank the Air Assault Forces, assault regiments and battalions, all our infantry, reconnaissance, artillery, and National Guard units. I thank everyone who provides the drone component," he said.

According to Zelensky, Russian losses from this counteroffensive alone, in the Pokrovsk area over recent weeks, already exceed 2,500, including more than 1,300 killed.

"Ukraine is rightfully defending its positions and its land. This is a heroic defense. I am proud of our soldiers, proud of our people. In this war, Ukraine is finding protection against every Russian act of treachery. We are disrupting all of Russia's plans - their plans to destroy our state. Our defense is always active. And we have proven that Ukrainians can achieve the necessary results, even when much of the world expects results from Russia," he said.

He also called on partners to act with dignity.

"Russia must be forced into peace. Ukraine can achieve this with sufficient strength in our army, with sufficient long-range capabilities. The world can achieve this together with us - with strong sanctions against Russia, with strong pressure, just as strong as the strength of our people," Zelensky said.

Today President Zelensky visited combat brigades in the Donetsk region.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine

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