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UK Defense Ministry: Russian Air Force increases activity in southern Ukraine

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Over the past two weeks, the Russian Air Force has increased the number of sorties in southern Ukraine, the U.K. Defense Ministry reported in its daily intelligence briefing on June 14.

Russian military aviation is attempting to support its ground troops with air strikes against the ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive, the report added.

According to the ministry, the number of sorties remains nevertheless lower than in the early phase of the war, where it peaked at up to 300 daily missions.

Russia's air operations are reportedly more feasible in Ukraine's south compared to other sectors. The Russian Air Force has also increased its use of air-to-surface weapons such as glide bombs, allowing air strikes from safe distances.

President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on June 10 that the long-awaited counteroffensive is ongoing, with concentrated hostilities in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.

According to Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar, Ukrainian troops are facing heavy resistance, including air strikes and artillery.

The counteroffensive has achieved some gains, liberating at least 7 settlements and regaining 90 square kilometers in the country's south and east.

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Martin Fornusek

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Martin Fornusek is a reporter for the Kyiv Independent, specializing in international and regional politics, history, and disinformation. Based in Lviv, Martin often reports on international politics, with a focus on analyzing developments related to Ukraine and Russia. His career in journalism began in 2021 after graduating from Masaryk University in Brno, Czechia, earning a Master's degree in Conflict and Democracy Studies. Martin has been invited to speak on Times Radio, France 24, Czech Television, and Radio Free Europe. He speaks English, Czech, and Ukrainian.

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