Russia-Ukraine War: Zelenskyy visits Kharkiv amid Russian shelling

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his first trip to the country's war-torn east since the launch of Moscow's invasion, as Russian forces tightened their grip around key cities in the Donbas region. This trip is intended to underscore the success of the Ukrainian counteroffensive to drive Russia back from Ukraine’s second-largest city.

After several weeks of being quiet, Kharkiv has witnessed heavy Russian shelling in recent days. Credit: Reuters Photo

Several explosions were heard in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv hours after a visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Credit: Reuters Photo

Zelenskyy's office posted a video on Telegram of him analysing the destructions in Kharkiv and its surroundings. Credit: Reuters Photo

The visuals showed Zelenskyy wearing a bullet-proof vest and being shown heavily destroyed buildings in Kharkiv and its surroundings. Credit: Reuters Photo

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy interacts with the soldiers during his visit to Kharkiv. Credit: Reuters Photo

Zelenskyy discussed reconstruction plans with local officials on his trip to Kharkiv, saying there was a chance for areas devastated by Russian attacks to

Reportedly, Zelenskyy also met local officials -- the governor of Kharkiv region and the mayor of the city -- to discuss reconstruction programs for the region. Credit: Reuters Photo

Zelenskyy also called on them to