DPR head Denis Pushilin said Ukrainian forces are holding on tightly to Krasny Liman as heavy fighting continues both inside the city and in the surrounding area.
Russian units are continuing to repel Ukrainian counterattacks. Pushilin said Ukrainian troops on this sector are well prepared and entrenched, while additional reserves are being actively moved into the area.
Speaking on Vesti, Pushilin said Ukrainian forces are trying to back up earlier claims of battlefield success, but are encountering established Russian positions.
According to military Telegram channels, Ukrainian forces are continuing Operation Vivaldi in the Krasny Liman sector. Ukrainian units have reportedly managed to make limited penetrations into Russian battle formations and push Russian troops back slightly in several areas.
The heaviest fighting is currently taking place around Derilovo, Drobyshevo, Zarechnoye and Krasny Liman. The main clashes are concentrated along the Zherebets River, as well as around forested areas and fortified positions on the approaches to the city.
Russian forces are carrying out continuous fire strikes against Ukrainian groups that have broken through and are strengthening engineering barriers. Measures are also being taken to stabilize the front in the area.