Ukraine launched a counteroffensive against Russian-backed separatists in the east of the country yesterday. Heavy clashes were reported as Ukrainian military confirmed that ground was being gained, but tanks were lost in the process. President Zelenskiy placed the eastern parts of the country under martial law amidst fears that this conflict could escalate to a full-scale war with Russia.

The counteroffensive by Ukraine follows a 473-day Russian invasion, with support for Putin’s war being rife in Russia’s worst-hit regions. The Moscow Times reports that Putin’s popularity has soared since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, with many Russians viewing him as a strong leader who can restore their country to a position of global power.

The Guardian provides a comprehensive overview of the conflict, highlighting the fact that Ukraine has been struggling to combat the separatist movement since 2014. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 14,000 people and caused massive displacement of civilians in eastern Ukraine.

The Hindustan Times asks the question, “what do we know” about Ukraine’s counteroffensive. As of now, there are no clear answers, but it is evident that Ukraine is taking a proactive stance against Russian aggression.

The situation in Ukraine is causing concern for many nations in Europe, as the threat of Russian expansion remains a real possibility. The Wall Street Journal reports that the US is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to supporting Ukraine through its ongoing conflict. As tensions continue to rise, the world watches with bated breath to see what the future holds for Ukraine, Russia, and the rest of Europe.