Moscow, 23 October 2023 (dpa/MIA) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized on Sunday the importance of the ongoing liberation of Russian-occupied areas of his country.

Ukraine needs results every day, he asserted, adding that "constant advances on the front" are important.

"Whether just by one kilometre, whether by 500 metres, but forward every day to improve the Ukrainian positions, to put pressure on the occupiers," Zelensky said in his evening video address.

Fighting for Avdiivka and Maryinka near the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk is currently particularly tough. According to the Ukrainian General Staff, more than 20 Russian attacks were repelled on each of these sectors of the front on Sunday. The information cannot be independently verified.

Ukraine has been defending itself against a Russian war of aggression for 20 months.

Zelensky said he had spoken to the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, by telephone. Among the issues they discussed was Qatar's mediating role in the release of Ukrainians held captive by Russia.

Early this week, four Ukrainian children and young people returned to Ukraine from Russia after mediation efforts by Qatar.

Photo: EPA