Breaking News: Ukrainian Armed Forces Achieve Major Victory in Verbove, Details Inside!

Ukraine's counteroffensive commander in the southern front line claims that his troops have successfully penetrated Verbove and foresees an even more substantial breakthrough in the future. Oleksandr Tarnavsky revealed during an interview with CNN Senior International Correspondent Frederik Pleitgen on Friday that they are making progress, albeit at a slower pace than initially expected.

"It didn't unfold as swiftly as anticipated, far from resembling the portrayals seen in Second World War films," he remarked. "The crucial aspect is to retain our current advantage. Furthermore, we must ensure that this advantage is sustained through practical actions."

This statement from the generals serves as the most recent sign from Ukrainian officials that progress is being achieved in the conflict with Russia from the southern front.

In recent weeks, Ukrainian forces have asserted that they have successfully breached the initial line of Russian strongholds in the Zaporizhzia region, indicating that Kyiv is approaching Moscow's extensive network of fortified trenches along the southern front. On the other hand, Russian-appointed officials in the occupied Zaporizhzhia region have presented a contrasting perspective on the ongoing conflict. CNN is unable to independently confirm the battlefield reports from either side. Nevertheless, analysis of publicly available videos indicates that certain Ukrainian units may have managed to traverse a significant Russian defensive line near the village of Verbove.

Ukraines long-term goal is to break Russias "land bridge," which links territory it holds in the east with annexed Crimea.

Ukrainian servicemen conduct a reconnaissance mission on September 7.

Stringer/Reuters

Ukrainian forces announced in early September that they had successfully captured the village of Robotyne and were advancing towards the village of Novoprokopivka in the east. As they moved closer to the next line of defense set up by Russian forces, soldiers anticipated intense battles for control of the elevated terrain to the south and east of the village. It is worth noting that Verbove is located a few miles east of Robotyne.

However, Tarnavsky, speaking to CNN, expressed his belief that the ultimate game-changer in the counteroffensive would be the capture of Tokmak, a crucial Russian stronghold and Ukraine's primary objective in their southern campaign.

According to CNN's recent report, Ukrainian forces are currently positioned approximately 20 kilometers away from Tokmak and are facing significant challenges in penetrating the multiple layers of Russian defenses. Tarnavsky expressed his belief that a major breakthrough is imminent, particularly after reaching Tokmak. He noted that the Russians are currently relying on the strength of their defensive line in that location.

Instead of focusing on the Surovikin line, a defensive line constructed under the direction of former General Sergey Surovikin during his tenure leading the Russian forces in Ukraine, Tarnavsky highlights the significance of the "intersections, wooded areas, and minefields located between these wooded areas." Tarnavsky acknowledges the presence of strategically positioned and capable enemy defense units that pose a threat. However, he emphasizes that our troops' determined offensive tactics are compelling them to gradually retreat.

The general acknowledged that in order for the counteroffensive to achieve success, it is essential for Ukrainian forces to at least advance to the city of Tokmak.

"Tokmak represents the minimum target," he remarked. "The ultimate aim is to reach our state borders."

The 10th Mountain Assault Brigade 'Edelveys' fire"D-30" artillery on September 16.

Libkos/Getty Images

Not as fast as expected

Tarnavsky acknowledged that the progress was not meeting their initial expectations, but he asserted that the winter season would not hinder the counteroffensive. Rainfall during the autumn months can saturate the Ukrainian terrain, making it challenging to operate large machinery such as tanks. However, Tarnavsky emphasized that the country's forces primarily rely on small group movements, mostly on foot.

"The weather can pose a significant challenge during advancement, but as we continue to move forward primarily on foot rather than relying on vehicles, I believe that the weather will not greatly impact our counteroffensive," stated Tarnavsky during the interview with Pleitgen.

"At present, neither our enemy nor ourselves rely on large formations such as companies, battalions, or brigades. Instead, we deploy assault squads comprised of 10 to 15 individuals," he elaborated. "These squads undertake the daunting task of diverting enemy fire towards themselves while employing every available means to ensure their survival."

The general attributed the slow progress partly to Russia's ability to draw lessons from previous Ukrainian offensives.

"The Russians are rapidly learning because they have no alternative. If they fail to learn, they will face defeat sooner," he clarified. "I wouldn't say they are merely adjusting to our actions, as we also modify our tactics."

He acknowledged that Ukraine has been embracing Western equipment and tactics, even in the face of growing opposition in the West, particularly in the US, where doubts about Kyiv's prospects of success have been expressed.

"Consider this the skeptics' viewpoint. This is not a competition and we are not given a choice," he stated. "I acknowledge that some may have envisioned extensive counteroffensive actions. Yet, times are evolving, enemy strategies are evolving, and weapons are evolving."

"Our sole objective is to liberate our territories. No matter how challenging it may be, we will persist in our efforts. Moreover, I express gratitude to even the skeptics, as their criticism also impacts the success of our mission," he expressed.

He thanked Ukraines Western allies for their continuous support and pledged to treat the tanks and armored vehicles they have supplied with great care.

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Wagner, here and there

During the interview, the general also discussed the present situation of the Wagner mercenary group. He mentioned that even after the death of their former leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in a recent plane crash, Wagner fighters continue to appear sporadically on the front line. Prigozhin had been leading a failed insurrection, which marked the most significant challenge to Russian President Vladimir Putin's rule in decades.

Prigozhin and his fighters were supposed to be sent to Belarus as part of a deal to ease the crisis. However, there have been reports of Wagner fighters relocating to Kherson. When asked about these reports, Tarnavsky acknowledged that Wagner fighters have been spotted in various locations, including the Kherson region, without specifying the exact locations. The constant presence of their badges is a significant factor.

Tarnavsky mentioned that his men often speculated about the presence of Wagner whenever their enemy demonstrated a higher level of competence.

"Our suspicion for Wagner arises when we observe the hindrance of our offensive forces by a group of military personnel who carry out their duties in a more unconventional and captivating manner," he clarified. "This prompts us to question, 'Could it be that Wagner has made an appearance?'"

"But there is currently no military presence in the front line area," he stated. "As for the Kherson direction, I am unable to provide any information." Ukraine recently conducted a missile strike on the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol, located in the Crimean peninsula, which was unlawfully annexed by Russian forces in 2014.

Tarnavsky emphasized to CNN the significance of striking Crimea for the effective advancement of Kyiv's counteroffensive. He stated that the success of offensive actions not only relies on eliminating enemy forces but also on neutralizing positions where equipment and personnel gather, and particularly on disabling command centers. This strategic approach is aimed at causing chaos on the battlefield.

The general added striking Crimea was especially important as a rallying cry for Ukrainian forces and to boost morale.

"It helps us but it also gives us hope for the future," he said.