 Ukrainian army liberating at least seven settlements and regaining 90 square kilometers. Over the past two weeks, the Russian Air Force has increased the number of sorties in southern Ukraine. The United Kingdom Defence Ministry reported it. Russian military aviation is attempting to support its ground troops with airstrikes against the ongoing Ukrainian counter offensive, the report added. According to the Ministry, the number of sorties remains nevertheless lower than in the early phase of the war where it peaked at up to 300 daily missions. Russia's air operations are reportedly more feasible in Ukraine's south compared to other sectors. The Russian Air Force has also increased its use of air-to-surface weapons such as glide bombs, allowing airstrikes from safe distances. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on June 10 that the long-awaited counter offensive is ongoing with concentrated hostilities in Donetsk and Zaporizia Oblasts. According to Deputy Defence Minister Hannah Malia, Ukrainian troops are facing heavy resistance, including airstrikes and artillery. The counter offensive has achieved some gains, liberating at least seven settlements and regaining 90 square kilometers in the country's south and east.