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Lots of rumors have been running around today. The latest information is beginning to provide some clarification. This was posted 6-hours ago:

"On the Orekhovsky segment (Robotyne AO), the APU is getting closer to Tokmak. Information is being received that the second line of defense of katsapni has been broken in two sectors of the front. Fighting is underway in the villages of Novoprokopovka and Novopokrovka. The Ukrainian armed forces are getting closer to the villages of Verbovo and Kopani. The orcs are still trying to snap back, but they can't change the situation on this front. The rashists have very large losses, and there is nowhere to replenish fresh meat. It is reported that the katsaps began evacuating the FSB Department and headquarters from Tokmak. That is, they are doing badly and they no longer believe that they will keep #Tokmak."

LINK

Granted these are pro-Ukrainian sources and unconfirmed information but it appears the UAF is attacking in multiple directions. They have made at least 2 openings and the one towards Novoprokopivka looks like it might be a legit breakthrough.

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The Russian defense is composed of three fortified lines. Everything that I read months ago indicated that the 2nd line was the strongest and best. Breaking it is the biggest challenge for Ukraine.

The line of defense from Novoprokopivka and Verbovo looks to be a weak spot in that 2nd line of defense. Especially since that line was made up of artillery more than mines. The excerpts from the intercepted Russian communications say they are withdrawing because they are low on shells. If that is true then the Russian defense only have enough shells on hand for a few hours fighting and since the supply depo in Tokmak was taken out today then they might not get to restock for a bit. This could all fizzle out but it looks like there might actually be some life in this counteroffensive after all.

This post was edited on 8/24/23 at 6:15 pm