Ukraine Plans Fourth Phase of Operation Vivaldi, Zelensky Says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced plans for a fourth phase of Operation Vivaldi, Ukraine's counteroffensive in the Lyman area of the Donetsk region. This operation has disrupted Russia's goal of seizing the entire Donbas. Since the first three phases, Russia has suffered over 5,000 casualties, with 250 more captured.

Ukrainian forces have reclaimed 176 square kilometers of territory. Zelensky emphasized the operation's success in halting Russian advances and stabilizing the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk region. He also highlighted the increasing use of ground robotic systems, which have significantly reduced the need for soldiers in dangerous combat situations.

Ukraine's parliament has exempted transactions for ground robotic complexes from value-added tax to lower procurement costs. Zelensky met with commanders of units involved in the operation, discussing their needs, including artillery and financial support. The offensive has reversed more than a year of Russian advances, according to the Atlantic Council.

Zelensky commended the 21st Kraken Separate Unmanned Systems Regiment for their contributions and presented awards to troops from various brigades and battalions for their roles in the offensive. The operation aims to push back Russian forces, dismantle their infiltration tactics, and cut their supply lines in the Donetsk region.

Russia began backing separatist forces in the Donbas after annexing Crimea in 2014, leading to a decade-long conflict that claimed around 14,000 lives. Ukraine rejects any territorial concessions in a peace deal, instead calling for an unconditional ceasefire. 51 countries recently issued a joint statement in support of Ukraine, urging Russia to accept a ceasefire.