Ukraine news LIVE: Putin suffers major blow as troops forced to ‘RETREAT’ & over 30 settlements liberated in Kharkiv

VLADIMIR PUTIN has suffered a major blow as the Russian Ministry of Defence have confirmed that troops were forced to “regroup” following Ukraine’s recent advances. The Russian Ministry of Defence confirmed the retreat of Russian forces from both Izyum and Balakliya on Saturday. In a statement published by state media outlet RIA Novosti the Ministry said: “It was decided to regroup the Russian troops stationed in the Balakleya and Izyum regions to step up efforts in the Donetsk direction.” It comes as, Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the successful liberation of over 30 settlements in Kharkiv. According to the steadfast Ukrainian president, troops have taken back over 30 key settlements in the region. In his nightly address, Zelensky hailed the bravery of his troops, as he said: “We are returning the Ukrainian flag and protection to our people everywhere.” Read our Ukraine-Russia blog below for the latest updates…