Ukrainian counter-offensive is under way, Zelensky says

Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed his country's counter-offensive against Russian forces is under way.

Increasingly intense fighting in the south and east of the country has prompted speculation about whether a counter-offensive had started, or was imminent.

Mr Zelensky did not offer further information about the current stage of the counter-offensive, but indicated that his military commanders are in a positive mood.

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Yesterday, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) said 'significant' Ukrainian operations have taken place in several regions of eastern and southern Ukraine.

Ukrainian forces have "likely made good progress" and penetrated the first line of Russian defences, the MOD said. In other areas, however, it said Ukrainian progress has been slower, according to the latest MOD update.

The update described Russian performance as "mixed", with some units "likely conducting credible manoeuvre defence operations".