On 20 December, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived with a visit to Bakhmut. This is a city in Donetsk Region where fierce battles with the occupiers are taking place.
The information about the visit was confirmed by the President's Office. According to the information provided, Zelenskyy met with Ukrainian defenders in Bakhmut and awarded them.
"Bakhmut Fortress. Our people. Unconquerable in front of the enemy. Who prove with their bravery that we will stand and will not give up what is ours. Ukraine is proud of you. I am proud of you! Thank you for the courage, fortitude and strength that you demonstrate in repelling enemy attacks," the President noted on Telegram.
Presidential Spokesperson Serhiy Nikiforov later added on Facebook that Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the frontline positions of one of the mechanized brigades, whose personnel is resisting the enemy on the outskirts of the town. The commander gave the Head of the State a report on the operational situation, logistical support and proposals for further actions.
"While in the area of combat operations, Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the Ukrainian warriors for the courage, resilience and strength they demonstrate while repelling enemy attacks. The President presented state awards to the servicemen. Soldiers of mechanized, motorized infantry, mountain assault, tank, artillery and airmobile units received them. The Head of State and the attendees commemorated the heroes who remained forever on the battlefield with a minute of silence," he said.
Updated. Ukrainian military in Bakhmut handed the President a flag of Ukraine with a request to pass it to "fellow soldiers in America".
"For weapons?" Zelenskyy asked and added: "We will transfer it all".
"We have a tough situation, the enemy is increasing its numbers. We will convey our gratitude to the US Congress and the President for their support," he said on FREEDOM TV channel, Interfax-Ukraine reports.
"It seems to me that Bakhmut heroes should get the same as any person. Their children, families: to be well, to be warm, to be healthy. I would like to wish that there was light, but the reality is that it comes and goes. The main thing is to have the light inside," Zelenskyy added.
The President of Ukraine paid a previous visit to the frontline in Donetsk Region on the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 6 December. He recorded a video congratulation at the entrance to Slovyansk.
Now Bakhmut is one of the hottest spots on the frontline. Ukrainian military repel Russian attacks daily, and the town is also constantly shelled.