Camilla Jessen
Russian forces have reportedly taken control of nearly half of Chasiv Yar, a strategically important town in Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
The Ukrainian military has reported that Russian forces have taken control of a large portion of the town of Chasiv Yar.
“Russian forces have seized approximately 40% of Chasiv Yar,” stated Oleksandr Polukhin, a spokesperson for the 24th Mechanized Brigade.
During a broadcasted interview, Polukhin cautioned that if the entire town falls under Russian control, it could provide them with a major tactical advantage due to Chasiv Yar’s elevated position, which overlooks nearby cities like Kostyantynivka, Druzhkivka, and Kramatorsk.
Furthermore, the town’s strategic location could disrupt crucial logistical routes connecting these urban centers.
The potential capture of Chasiv Yar poses a serious threat to Ukraine’s efforts to defend the Donetsk region within its administrative borders, according to the statement.
The Ukrainian 225th Assault Battalion has been fighting in Chasiv Yar for over four months, as reported by United24 Media.
At one point, their positions were completely surrounded by Russian troops, forcing them to defend in a circle for 70 days.
Previously, Ukrainian authorities initiated a forced evacuation of children and their parents from settlements in the Kostiantynivka and Selydove municipalities, affecting around 20 cities and villages.