Selenskyj visits the front near Bakhmut – the situation at a glance

war in Ukraine

In this photo provided by his press office, Volodymyr Zelenskyy (right) stands with a soldier for a selfie during his visit to the headquarters of the frontline brigades on August 14, 2023.
© Uncredited/Ukrainian Presidential Press Office/AP/dpa

Amid the ongoing counter-offensive, the Ukrainian President is visiting his troops on the Eastern Front. Federal Finance Minister Lindner is meanwhile giving Kiev hope for Taurus cruise missiles. An overview of what happened during the night and a view of the day.

More news about the war in Ukraine

The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited positions of several units of his army north of the Russian-occupied city of Bakhmut in the Donetsk region. “I thank you for protecting the lives of our people,” said Zelenskyj in a video released on Monday, which was recorded in an initial reception center for the wounded.

Meanwhile, the US announced that it would continue to provide military aid to Ukraine. And Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner expressed sympathy for the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to the attacked country.

Ukraine reports minor successes at Bachmut

During his visit to the front, Zelenskyy presented awards to soldiers. He was accompanied by the head of his office, Andriy Yermak, his deputy Roman Mashovets and Brigadier General Artem Bohomolow. Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maljar had previously announced that the Ukrainian units south of Bakhmut had recaptured three square kilometers of land last week.

It is important to talk to the soldiers personally, said Zelenskyj in his evening video speech, which he apparently recorded on the train on the way back from the eastern region of Donetsk. In it he also stated that Ukraine must produce and import more drones in order to protect human lives on the front lines.

New US military aid of $200 million

The US is providing Ukraine with another US$200 million (€183 million) in military aid. The new package includes ammunition for the Patriot air defense system, Himars multiple rocket launchers, Javelin anti-tank missiles and spare parts, the Ministry of Defense said. In addition, additional artillery ammunition and mine clearance equipment from US military stocks will be delivered.

The United States is considered Ukraine’s main ally in defending against the Russian invasion. According to the Pentagon, since the war began at the end of February 2022, the United States has provided or pledged more than 43 billion US dollars (around 39 billion euros) in military aid to Kiev.

Lindner expresses sympathy for Taurus deliveries to Ukraine

Federal Minister of Finance Lindner During his visit to Kiev, he expressed his support for a possible delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine. The FDP leader said: “Ukraine must win this war. That’s why it’s also part of our responsibility that Ukraine’s staying power is always greater than the malice that emanates from Putin’s war.” The federal government therefore wants to continue to do everything in its power to strengthen Ukraine’s military capabilities. Much has already been done to this end.

With regard to the Taurus debate, Lindner said that the usual procedure applies. Germany will discuss with its allies what is needed and what is possible. “Since I know that many, like myself, have sympathy for such support, I hope that these questions will be clarified soon, very soon.”

Russian fighter jet crashed in southern Krasnodar Territory

According to official information, a fighter jet crashed in the southern Russian region of Krasnodar. According to initial findings, one inmate died, the Interfax agency reported, citing the Ministry of Defense in Moscow.

The L-39 training aircraft was about to land during a training flight when it crashed onto the airfield for reasons that have not yet been clarified. Russian warplanes repeatedly launch their attacks on Ukraine from Krasnodar.

What will be important on Tuesday

In the east and south of Ukraine, Kiev’s counter-offensive to liberate the areas occupied by Russia continues. (dpa/fte)