Russian troops destroyed critical infrastructure in the southern city of Kherson before fleeing as fighting rages in Donetsk region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi said on Saturday, adding that local authorities were beginning to stabilize the city.

But pro-Moscow forces are fighting much harder elsewhere, and Zelensky said the fighting in eastern Donetsk region is hellish.

“Before fleeing from Kherson, the occupiers destroyed all critical infrastructure: communication, water, heat, electricity,” Zelenskyy said in a video message.

“(The Russians) have one goal everywhere: to humiliate people as much as possible. But we will restore everything, believe me,” he continued.

Zelenskyi said that Ukrainian troops have taken control of more than 60 settlements in the Kherson region.

“The police have started stabilization measures. Stabilization measures are also ongoing in Kherson,” he said, adding that almost 2,000 mines, wires and unexploded ammunition have been neutralized so far.

Ukraine was able to conduct successful operations in Kherson and elsewhere thanks in part to resistance in the Donetsk region in the face of repeated Russian attacks, Zelenskyy said

“It’s just hell there – every day there are extremely fierce battles,” added the Kyivan.

“But our units defend bravely – they withstand the terrible onslaught of the invaders, maintaining our defense.”