Ukraine war: Ukraine claims Bakhmut breakthrough, grain deal extension, Zaporizhzhia under fire

Kyiv says it has seized ground in the besieged city of Bakhmut, though Russia denied it this morning. 

Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar claimed Ukrainian forces advanced two kilometres. 

However, earlier today the Kremlin denied reports its frontline had collapsed at several points, claiming the situation was under control.

If Ukraine's claim is true, it would mark a rare advance after months of grinding warfare, but large questions hang over whether its much-anticipated counter-offensive has started. 

Pro-Russian bloggers suggest it has begun, pointing to Ukrainian advances north and south of Bakhmut. Yet, only yesterday Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the counteroffensive would be delayed, fearing it would cost too many lives. 

His generals have since claimed some of their biggest battlefield successes in months.

Russian mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said on Thursday that the situation on the flanks of Bakhmut was unfolding in line with the "worst of all expected scenarios". 

His troops have played a central role in the fighting, though he recently threatened to pull out over a dispute with Russia's top brass about ammunition. 

The southeastern city has seen fierce fighting since last summer, being dubbed a "meat grinder". 

Euronews cannot independently confirm the situation on the ground. 

Ukraine's expected attack could be pivotal for the war, possibly changing frontlines that have remained unchanged for months. 

Kyiv is eager to prove it can achieve significant battlefield gains with weapons and equipment from the West, while Russia will be looking to avoid damaging defeats. 

The landmark grain deal allowing Ukrainian grain exports across the Black Sea may be extended by 60 days, Russian state