OREANDA-NEWS The Russian Defense Ministry announced the beginning of a large-scale Ukrainian offensive. It began on June 4 in five sectors of the front in the South Donetsk direction. According to the military department, the AFU involved two mechanized brigades from the strategic reserves of the Ukrainian army "with the support of other military units and subdivisions."

Ukraine has been talking about a counteroffensive since the winter of this year. Some officials claim that it has already begun, others say that so far only preparations are underway. However, the Russian side also speaks about the activation of the Armed Forces on the front line. In particular, Denis Pushilin, the acting head of the DPR, told about the activation of the contact line in mid-May.

On June 3, Vladimir Zelensky said that Ukraine was ready to launch a counteroffensive. But he warned that it "may take some time" and go through completely different scenarios. In addition, it will cost the country dearly.