NAZI DEFENCE STIFFENS

Waikato Times, Volume 194, Issue 22247, 17 January 1944, Page 3

NAZI DEFENCE STIFFENS

VIOLENT BATTLES IN KIEV BULGE RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE IN LENINGRAD AREA HEAVY LOSSES INFLICTED ON GERMAN ARMY LONDON, Jan. 16 Great battles are reported on the southern fringe of the Kiev bulge, where the Germans are counter-attacking in an attempt to save their vital communications. Everywhere the counter-attacks have failed and at least 2000 Germans were killed. In the Pripet Marshes also the Germans are increasing their resistance, but all their attacks have been thrown back. These are the only movements reported by the Russians, but the Germans speak of heavy Russian attacks all along the front from Leningrad to the Black Sea. They attach particular importance to what they describe as a new Russian offensive in the Leningrad area. For the sixth day running the enemy has hurled in large forces of tanks and infantry at his greatest danger point— Vinnitsa. Yesterday he launched another heavy blow from the direction of Uman, 90 miles further east. A Soviet communique says there is bitter fighting in this area. The Russians were last reported astride the railway a few miles from Uman. Reuter’s correspondent says the German counter-attacks east of Vinnitsa have reached a new pitch of intensity. Tanks are being knocked out in dozens, and wide areas are strewn with enemy dead. '