"Ukraine Forces Make Gains, Encircle Bakhmut as Russian Troops Deployed"

Ukraine dismisses six deputy defense ministers, claims to have shot down Russian attack drones and cruise missiles, reports casualties from Russian air attacks, and files complaints with the WTO against Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary. Russian foreign minister meets with Chinese counterpart, while Ukrainian President Zelenskyy visits injured soldiers in New York ahead of his speech at the UN General Assembly. A UN expert highlights the deteriorating human rights situation in Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. Poland proposes new EU sanctions against Russia, including a ban on Russian diamonds and LPG. Germany pledges additional aid to Ukraine, including ammunition and protective vehicles.