In a recent update from Kyiv, Ukrainian forces have reported slow but significant gains in their ongoing battle to regain control of the embattled town of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. Despite facing fierce resistance from Russian forces and mercenaries affiliated with the Wagner group, the Ukrainian military remains determined and resolute in their efforts to reclaim the strategic territory. The commander of Ukraine’s ground forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, took to social media to announce the advances near Bakhmut, emphasizing that they are continuing to push forward.
Ukrainian troops have been engaging in intense clashes with Russian forces around the town, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to retake the area. Bakhmut, once home to approximately 80,000 people, fell under Russian control in May after months of grueling warfare that left the town devastated. Since then, Ukrainian forces have been steadily regaining ground and launching a highly-anticipated counter-offensive earlier this month. Deputy Defense Minister Ganna Malyar echoed the commander’s sentiments, stating that Ukrainian forces had seized the “operational advantage” around Bakhmut and were currently on the offensive.
She further emphasized the determination of Ukrainian troops, highlighting their painstaking efforts in this fierce battle. Malyar noted that while the enemy has attempted counter-attacks, they have been gradually retreating and suffering significant losses. Meanwhile, the Russian defense ministry has not conceded any lost ground around Bakhmut. In their latest military briefing, they claimed to be repelling Ukrainian attacks in the eastern Donetsk region.
Moscow has been relentless in its pursuit of capturing the industrial territory, considering it a crucial military objective since the invasion began in February. The Kremlin has even asserted that Donetsk, along with three other regions in Ukraine, should be part of Russia. Adding to the complexity of the situation, Moscow recently alleged that Ukrainian forces were capitalizing on an aborted uprising by Wagner forces within Russia to prepare attacks around Bakhmut.
This claim suggests that Ukrainian forces are taking advantage of internal conflicts within Russia to advance their military objectives. As the battle for Bakhmut rages on, the Ukrainian military remains focused on their goal of liberating the town and regaining control over the strategic area. With their persistent efforts and determination, Ukrainian forces are making progress against the Russian aggression, inching closer to their ultimate objective. The international community closely watches the evolving situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution and an end to the suffering endured by the people of Bakhmut.