Zelensky visits troops in eastern Donetsk region, Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited troops in the eastern Donetsk region on Monday, according to his office.

In a video released by the president’s office, Zelensky is seen talking to servicemen and soldiers from units of the Khortytsia operational group, including “troops that distinguished themselves in fierce battles in the direction of Bakhmut”.

“Everyone in the country understands that you are with us, everyone knows that you are doing the hardest work right now. Everyone knows that the east direction is very difficult today, it’s very hot and hard here. So I am sure that it will be you who will make the greatest contribution to our future victory,” said Zelensky, also shaking hands with the soldiers as he handed out awards.

A separate video from the presidential office on Monday showed Zelensky shaking hands with military personnel and gas station workers in Donetsk, thanking them for the work they are doing to support Ukraine.

Zelensky “stopped at a gas station in the Donetsk region and had coffee with the servicemen who were there,” according to his office press release. “The president wished the soldiers health and good luck in battle.”