Zelensky hails ‘good news’ as settlements recaptured from Russia

Ukraine’s President Zelensky said he has “good news”, claiming the recapture of several settlements from Russia.

Rumours have swirled for days about a possible breakthrough in the eastern Kharkiv region, but with no word from Ukrainian officials.

Zelensky declined to name which places had been retaken, saying that “now is not the time to name” them.

Separately, US officials said Ukraine was making “slow but meaningful progress” against Russian forces.

Speaking in his nightly video address to Ukrainians, President Zelensky said there was “good news” about the rumoured success of Ukrainian troops.

“I think every citizen feels proud of our soldiers,” he said, naming specific military units and applauding their bravery in combat.

Ukraine has tightened its operational security in recent weeks, sharing few details about a widely expected counter-offensive in the east and south.

Ukrainian soldiers have launched an offensive south-east of Kharkiv, towards the eastern region of Donetsk, over which Russia has maintained substantial military control since the war began six months ago.