In a major development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukraine has announced a substantial advance against the Russian army on the left bank of the Dnieper River. According to Ukrainian army spokesperson Natalia Goumeniouk, preliminary estimates suggest that Ukrainian troops have pushed back the Russian army between 3 and 8 kilometers deep into the occupied territory.

This numerical estimation marks the first tangible measure of progress for Kiev's forces in this region, following months of unsuccessful counter-offensives. If confirmed, this advance would be the largest push made by the Ukrainian army against Russian forces in several months.

Goumeniouk did not provide details on whether Ukrainian forces have complete control over the area in the Kherson region or if the Russian army has withdrawn in the face of Kiev's attacks. She emphasized that the enemy, referring to the Russian army, continues its artillery fire on the right bank of the Dnieper, estimating their numbers to be in the "several tens of thousands".

The Ukrainian counter-offensive, launched in June with the support of its Western allies, had previously failed to make significant gains. However, on Friday, Ukraine reported that it had successfully taken positions on the left bank of the Dnieper, albeit facing intense fighting and strong resistance from Russian troops.

This latest advancement positions Ukraine strategically to potentially launch a larger assault in the south. However, deploying their troops in this sandy and marshy area, with solid Russian defenses, presents inherent challenges.

Meanwhile, both Kiev and Moscow were targeted by drone attacks overnight from Saturday to Sunday. Authorities on both sides reported intercepting the enemy drones with anti-aircraft defenses, avoiding casualties. The Russian Defense Ministry accused the "Kyiv regime" of attempting a drone terrorist attack, which was evidently foiled.

Ukrainian drone attacks on Moscow had been more frequent during the spring leading up to the Ukrainian counter-offensive. However, they have since become rare. According to the Russian ministry, the drone in question was destroyed above the territory of the Moscow region.

In retaliation, Ukraine also experienced an intensification of explosive drone attacks from the Russian army for the second night in a row. Ukrainian authorities reported an increase in attacks on the capital city of Kyiv. The Ukrainian Air Force claimed to have shot down 29 out of 38 drones launched by Russian forces in the largest nighttime drone attack since September.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concern that Russia might escalate its attacks on Ukraine's energy system, aiming to disrupt heating and electricity supplies during the winter months. Zelenskyy urged the Ukrainian army to remain effective despite the challenges and fatigue they may face.

The situation remains tense as Ukraine continues its efforts to push back Russian forces and maintain control over strategic regions. The international community closely watches these developments, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.