Russian forces have allegedly gained control of the strategic hilltop town of Vuhledar in eastern Ukraine, according to unconfirmed reports by pro-Russian military bloggers. The town, located in the Donetsk region, has resisted capture by Russia since the full-scale invasion in 2022. Vuhledar serves as a crucial supply hub for both sides in the conflict, situated at the intersection of the eastern and southern fronts. Its capture would bring Moscow closer to incorporating the entire Donetsk region into its territory.
The town’s strategic importance is heightened by its proximity to a rail line connecting Crimea to the industrial Donbas region, of which Russia controls most. Ukrainian forces, while in control, used Vuhledar as a base to shell Russian military supply lines in the area. However, Russian forces intensified their offensive in recent days, trapping Ukrainian troops and complicating supplies and troop rotation.
Aerial glide bombs have allegedly been used to bombard the remaining Ukrainian defenders, resulting in devastating consequences for the town. Footage posted on social media shows Russian soldiers waving flags from atop bombed-out buildings. Donetsk Governor Vadym Filashkin confirmed that Russian troops were approaching the center of the city on Tuesday.
Since August, Moscow’s troops in eastern Ukraine have made considerable advances, with little resistance from Ukrainian forces. Despite a surprise incursion into Russia’s Kursk region, Russian forces have continued their push in the region. The situation in Vuhledar highlights the intense fighting and devastation that has characterized the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
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