Ukraine's military reports ongoing clashes near Bakhmut despite de-escalation efforts.

Clashes are ongoing around the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine, with Russia suffering "significant losses" despite a relative easing of combat operations. Ukraine's military denies that Moscow is in full control of the city and says its forces still retain a small foothold. The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group suggested that Ukrainian troops may have set up observation posts in the area. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said his forces were ready to launch a counteroffensive to reclaim territory now occupied by Russia.