Ukrainian defenders shell Russian invaders' positions in Kherson Oblast

Vilkul said the successful actions by Ukrainian troops had prevented the enemy from conducting an offensive.

"The enemy is suffering serious losses in manpower and equipment," he said.

"Tonight our guys gave an effective salute."

Vilkul said that the Russian troops were continuing to shell civilian areas out of frustration.

"Without prospering in their plans, the orcs (Russian soldiers) continue their scorched-earth tactics and massive shelling of peaceful settlements," he said.

"There wasn't a single day without shelling this week, and today there was shelling along the entire length of the front line – there were missile launches from Uragans (a Russian heavy multiple rocket launcher system) in the Shyroke territorial community."

On May 12, Vilkul reported that the Russians had used phosphate munitions in the Kryvyi Rih area.

Russia's war against Ukraine - the main events of May 16