Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the town of Avdiivka, one of the hottest spots on Ukraine’s eastern front, on Tuesday, his press service said.
“I have the honor to be here today, to thank you for your service, for the defense of our land,” the president told the military in Avdiivka, according to the presidency which released photos and video of this move. It comes shortly after the Kremlin announced a visit by Vladimir Putin to occupied areas of Ukraine.
In these images, the head of the Ukrainian state can be seen in a black tracksuit struck with a white Ukrainian trident on the chest, without bulletproof vest or helmet, first outside with military men in fatigues, in front a flowering tree, then in a vast industrial shed where he presented state decorations to soldiers.
In the video, cars, presumably part of the presidential convoy, can also be seen driving through streets among destroyed or heavily damaged buildings. “I only wish you victory, which I wish every Ukrainian,” Zelensky told the military. “I wish you to preserve your life for Ukraine. With such strong people, after the victory, I am sure that together we will rebuild Ukraine. “Glory to Ukraine!” he launched. “Glory to the heroes!” replied the soldiers.
The city of Avdiivka, located near Donetsk, the occupied regional capital, has for months been among the hottest points in the eponymous region, which the Russian army aims to take in its entirety.
