Putin declares Russian army has 'completely liberated' Luhansk and reports progress in Donetsk.

On July 3, during a local time visit, Russian President Vladimir Putin inspected the joint military command center and met with military officials. At this meeting, Putin made a significant announcement, declaring that Russian troops had 'completely liberated' the Luhansk region and emphasized the success of operations. Additionally, he informed the public that Russian forces are making 'significant advances' in the Donetsk region amid ongoing clashes in eastern Ukraine.

The Russian leadership discussed details regarding the course of the war at a military meeting attended by the Chief of the General Staff and other unit commanders. According to an official statement from the Kremlin, Putin met with high-ranking commanders in the field to review and assess intelligence reports on the latest situation at the front. Based on the information discussed at the meeting, Putin stated that the Russian army has increased the speed of its offensive along the entire front line and is proceeding in accordance with the General Staff's plans.

According to Putin's statements, the Russian military strategy is not limited to Luhansk but also includes intensifying operations in other critical regions such as Zaporizhzhia and Herson. Military sources reported that Russian forces are continuing their attacks decisively in the specified regions and strengthening their positions. This situation indicates that the war is following a multi-faceted course and reflects Russia's strategy of applying simultaneous pressure in different regions.

Continuing his assessments regarding the military balance on the ground, Putin claimed that the Ukrainian army is trying to defend its current positions but has suffered heavy losses in the face of intense and fierce attacks by the Russian army. The Russian leader suggested that the Ukrainian side's defense lines are weakening under the pressure of Russian forces and are suffering from a loss of manpower. This assertion is based on Russia's defense that it has seriously weakened Ukrainian military power and that operations are achieving their objectives.

According to the information detailed in the news, it was emphasized that bringing the strategically significant town of Kostiantynivka under control in the Donetsk direction operations would be a determining factor for the advance. The intensity of clashes in the region and the importance of the town are being evaluated as a turning point for the future of the war. Putin's remarks come at a time when he is reiterating Russia's determination to consolidate its military presence in eastern Ukraine and seize control of targeted regions.