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Russian-led forces attacked Ukrainian positions near the villages of Novotoshkivske, Orikhove, Krymske, and Khutir Vilny in the morning of February 18.

The occupiers are firing proscribed 120mm mortars, as well as grenade launchers of various types, and heavy machine guns, as reported by the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation on Facebook.

Supported by massive fire, Russian invaders launched an offensive operation, attempting to advance across the contact line.

At the moment, active combat is ongoing. Ukrainian forces have suffered losses amid enemy shelling.

It is noted that the Joint Forces have delivered an adequate response and are now trying to suppress enemy fire. Enemy losses are being specified.

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Journalist Yuriy Butusov says the battle started at 05:00 Kyiv time.

"The battle in the town of Zolote has been ongoing from 05:00. The situation at the frontline remains very difficult; residents of Sievierodonetsk, Lysychansk, Popasna hear the rumble of artillery very well," he wrote on Facebook.

On Monday, Russia's hybrid military forces mounted eight attacks on Ukrainian positions.

The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, and heavy machine guns, the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said.

Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Hnutove, Pavlopil, Pisky, Vodiane, Berezove, and Orikhove.

No casualties were reported among Ukrainian troops in the past day.