Ukraine gains ground near Bakhmut despite Russian denials.

Ukrainian military commanders announced that they had retaken 2 kilometers of territory from Russian forces south of the embattled eastern city of Bakhmut, marking a significant gain and protecting an important supply chain. However, it is unclear if this marks the start of Kyiv's long-expected counteroffensive. The battle for Bakhmut has been ongoing for eight months, with heavy casualties on both sides. Russian forces are attacking from the north, east, and south, while Ukrainian forces are stationed in the city.