Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says there is heavy fighting in the area of Dobropillia. Photo: AP PHOTO

Ukrainian troops are carrying out a counteroffensive against Russian forces on the eastern front, reclaiming seven settlements, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says after visiting the Donetsk region.

Subscribe now for unlimited access .

Login or signup to continue reading All articles from our website The digital version of Today's Paper All other regional websites in your area Continue

"In fact, our forces are depriving the occupier (Russia) of the opportunity to carry out a full-fledged offensive operation, which they had been planning for a long time and counting on," he said in a video address.

Ukrainian forces have taken back 160 square km since the star

See Full Page