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Zelensky makes first front-line trip to Kharkiv

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has visited troops in the Kharkiv region, on the country's battered eastern frontline.

It was his first official trip outside the Kyiv region since the Russian invasion began on 24 February.

Mr Zelensky told the soldiers, "I want to thank each of you for your service. You risk your lives for us all and for our country."

He was pictured in a bullet-proof vest surveying ruins in Kharkiv city.

Russia has resumed shelling Kharkiv - Ukraine's second-largest city - in recent days after a fortnight of comparative quiet.

The city faced intense bombardment in the war's first months, with images showing tower blocks flattened to rubble.

Russian troops were gradually pushed back from its surrounding towns during April and May, prompting some who had fled Kharkiv to return, and the metro to reopen for the first time since the invasion.

But the city remains within range of Russian artillery. Several loud explosions were heard in the city after Mr Zelensky's visit, Reuters news agency reports.

Analysis by Joe Inwood, BBC News Ukraine Correspondent

Today's visit to Kharkiv is the first time President Zelensky has left the Kyiv region since the start of Russia's invasion.

He met the troops who have not just defended Kharkiv, but repelled the Russians, almost pushing them back to the international border.

The fact that he was able to visit shows just how much the tide has turned in Ukraine's second city. A few weeks ago, this morale-boosting visit would never have been possible.

But, do not be mistaken, Kharkiv is only safe for now. Elsewhere, Ukraine very much appears on the back foot, with Russian artillery barrages forcing troops to retreat in the Donbas.

With its charismatic president, Ukraine has very much won the informational war. Unfortunately for Ukrainians, that is not where this conflict will ultimately be decided.

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Zelensky makes first front-line trip to Kharkiv

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