After slow start to counteroffensive, Ukrainian forces make notable gains against Russia

Nick Schifrin:

Podolyak also said today Ukraine would only stop fighting when it — quote — "destroys" Russia's military, even if that — quote — "continues for some time."

For more on the state of the counteroffensive, we turn to Doug Lute, retired lieutenant Army general and former U.S. ambassador to NATO.

Doug Lute, thanks very much. Welcome back to the "NewsHour."

How significant is it, as we heard from the deputy defense minister there, that Ukrainian forces have breached some of the first lines of Russian defenses, most notably, some of these minefields in Southern Ukraine?

Lt. Gen. Douglas Lute (RET.), Former U.S. Ambassador to NATO: Well, Nick, I think it's significant, because they have actually beaten the Russians on this first line of defense.

But I also think this first report should be cautioned, because there are subsequent lines at least as bad as the one that — as severe as the one they just penetrated that lay in front of the Ukrainian advance. So it's good news. But it's mostly so far a tactical success, without great operational significance.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7sa7SZ6arn1%2Bjsri%2Fx6isq2ejnby4e8Cfq56qXai5sMOMrKuaqqRiwbB5wqisp6yVp7ynssSnqqKulWLCrL7AoqWimZ5is7C%2Bwp6qZqWRoLJuus6tmJuklWK0orXNrGSan5Geu7TAjKusrKuZlg%3D%3D