Russia begins the offensive in Bakhmut

Russia has strengthened its positions around the devastated city of Bashmut in eastern Ukraine. This was stated by the Commander of the Ukrainian Army Oleksandr Sirsky. It is noteworthy that Russia is now focusing mainly on attack and to a lesser extent on defense.

In May, Russia captured Bashmut after months of bloody battle. Since then, Ukraine has been trying to reclaim the city, but not without a struggle. “In the area around Bashmut, the enemy has significantly strengthened its positions and focused on attack rather than defense,” said General Oleksandr Sersky, commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces.

He describes the situation in the east as difficult, as Russian forces are mainly active near the city of Kobyansk in northeastern Ukraine, where he says that Russian forces are trying to advance in several directions at once. According to the commander, Russia suffered heavy losses, which cannot be independently verified.

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Andreevka

Another city where Russia is strengthening its positions is Andreevka. Ukrainian defense officials said Russian forces continued their attempts to regain control of Andriyivka south of Bashmut, which Ukrainian forces said they recaptured in September. Heavy fighting continues around Avdiivka, where Russia has seized more territory.