Enemy is retreating on all fronts - Putin

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On the frontline, the strategic initiative has fully passed to the Russian Armed Forces, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated during the annual Direct Line session. The situation on the frontline was the first issue raised by the President.

"In some areas, the pace is faster, in others slower, but across all fronts, the enemy is retreating," said the Russian leader.

According to Putin, Russian troops have taken control of the city of Seversk, and active offensive operations are underway in the southern-Lyman direction, with troops already in the city. It is expected that Krasny Liman will be captured in the near future, and the advance will continue towards Slovyansk. There are also ongoing battles for Konstantinovka.

"A very important event was the capture of the city of Krasnoarmeysk. This is an excellent foothold for further offensive operations," Putin noted.

The city of Dimitrov is completely surrounded. The enemy is attempting to break out of the encirclement in small groups but is suffering significant losses. Fighting is ongoing in the city of Gulyai-Pole, with 50% of the city under the control of the Russian Armed Forces. In Kupyansk, 3,500 Ukrainian military personnel are surrounded, with virtually no chance of escape.

"I am confident that by the end of this year, we will witness new successes of our soldiers," Putin concluded.