Kyiv

Amid fierce fighting in the Donbas area between Russian and Ukrainian forces, reports claim Russian forces carried out assault operations in Severodonetsk city.

Advertisment

The regional governor of the Lugansk region, Sergiy Gaida claimed that there is "street-by-street" fighting underway in Severodonetsk with the situation in Lysychans "significantly worse".

Also Read| Ukraine crisis: Zelensky says situation 'indescribably difficult' in Donbas and Kharkiv

The development comes as Russian forces continue their push in eastern Ukraine over three months after President Vladimir Putin launched the "special military operation" against Ukraine on February 24.

Advertisment

President Zelensky said the "Russian army is trying to squeeze at least some result for itself in Donbas and Kharkiv regions" even as Russia said it had annexed Krasny Liman town. 

Watch: Russia blames West for food crisis

Advertisment

Liman town is located strategically on the road to Kramatorsk and Severodonetsk even as governor Gaiday claimed Severodonetsk hasn't been cut off and it is still possible to deliver humanitarian aid.

Reports claimed there was constant shelling taking place in Severodonetsk with at least 15,000 civilians still in the area with electricity and water in short supply.

On Saturday, during a phone call with German Chancellor Scholz and French President Macron, President Putin had said Russia was ready to allow Ukraine's wheat to be exported from the Black Sea ports even as he called for sanctions to be lifted to increase the supply of Russian fertilisers and agricultural products.

Meanwhile, according to reports, the US may be sending advanced rocket launchers to Kyiv with Zelensky making repeated calls for offensive weapons to take on the Russian forces.

(With inputs from Agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.