Ukraine shoots down Russian Su-25 aircraft in Donetsk Oblast, Zelensky says

Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

Soldiers of Ukraine's 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade shot down a Russian Su-25 fighter jet in Donetsk Oblast on May 4, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his evening address.

Russia is carrying out intense attacks in multiple sections of the eastern front, which covers much of Donetsk Oblast, after it captured the city of Avdiivka in February. Moscow shifted its focus toward Chasiv Yar, an elevated town that potentially opens the way to further advances into the region.

The Su-25 is used to provide close air support for Russian troops on the ground.

"Well done. I thank all our soldiers at the front in combat missions at combat posts," Zelensky said.

Russia's total losses during the all-out war amount to about 673 aircraft — 348 planes and 325 helicopters, according to Ukraine's General Staff.

The General Staff's figure could not be independently verified.

Subscribe to newsletter

War Notes

Russia used eight missiles of various types against Ukraine and dropped nearly 70 guided aerial bombs on border settlements and positions at the front within a day, according to Zelensky.

Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and Ukraine's military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov also reportedly briefed Zelensky on "the actions of specific units in specific areas" at the front.

"We are aware of all aspects of the situation now," Zelensky said.

Ukraine is facing a "new stage" in the full-scale war as Russia is preparing to expand its offensive, Zelensky said earlier.

Russian forces are trying to advance in the Lyman, Bakhmut, Kupiansk, Novopavlivka, and Avdiivka sectors in the east of Ukraine, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported on May 4.

Battle of Chasiv Yar begins: On the ground with Ukrainian forces defending city key to Russia's plans

Editor's note: In accordance with the security protocols of the Ukrainian military, soldiers featured in this story are identified by first names and callsigns only. CHASIV YAR, DONETSK OBLAST - As he creeps between rubble-strewn garages near the central square of Chasiv Yar, the eyes and ears of t…

The Kyiv IndependentFrancis Farrell