Russian occupiers use non-government-controlled areas in Ukraine, including the Uspenka, Dovzhansky and Diakove checkpoints, to supply ammunition, weapons and military hardware to temporarily occupied territories, Ukrainian Defense Ministry spokesman Maksym Prauta has said.

"First of all, the invaders are increasing stockpiles of artillery shells, mortar mines, ammunition for multiple launch rocket systems and grenade launchers," he said at a briefing on Wednesday.

According to him, units of the Russian occupying troops continue to receive replenishment from mercenaries who were selected and trained in Russia.

These are mainly individuals with combat experience or experience of service as snipers, intelligence officers, and artillerymen.

op