Photo from UNIAN

Russia's hybrid military forces have mounted nine attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas since the beginning of the day.

The shelling was recorded near the villages of Pavlopil, Ukrainske, Novo-Oleksandrivka, Kalynove-Borshchuvate, Molodizhne, Katerynivka, Sadoviy, Zolote-4 and Zolote-5, the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said on Facebook.

A group of enemy infantry started approaching the support zone near Novo-Oleksandrivka. Ukrainian soldier Oleksandr Tsapenko was at that platoon fortified position at that time and spotted the enemy movement. Together with his comrades, he opened fire on enemy troops, forcing them to retreat.

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"Covering the withdrawal of infantry, the enemy began shelling of our positions with 82mm mortars. One of the mortar shells blew up near Oleksandr's position, inflicting deadly injuries. For his bravery, soldier Oleksandr Tsapenko will be awarded (posthumously)," reads the report.

Moreover, one Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of enemy shelling, he is now being treated at a hospital.

The militants also opened fire from automatic grenade launchers and sniper weapons near Katerynivka. One of the sniper bullets hit senior soldier Oleksiy Honcharov.

"He was provided first aid and evacuated. There is no threat to his life. For his bravery, senior soldier Oleksiy Honcharov will be awarded," the press center said.