BILD: Russian troops breach Ukrainian defenses in Donbas, setting stage for winter battles, expert warns

Russian forces have launched an offensive on a 70-kilometer front in Donbas, according to Finnish military expert Emil Kastehelmi, as reported by BILD.

Ukraine seeks to reclaim territory lost to Russian forces in Donbas. Following a series of counteroffensives, Ukrainian troops have made some gains, retaking critical villages in the Donetsk Oblast. However, the situation is precarious, with Russian forces recently capturing towns like Avdiivka and Vuhledar and advancing towards Pokrovsk. By October 2024, Russian officials claimed to have gained approximately 1,000 square kilometers of territory in Donbas.

Kastehelmi noted that Russian advances in the areas of Vuhledar, Kurakhove, and Selydove in Donetsk Oblast have intensified in recent days.

Kastehelmi highlighted that, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, over 100 combat engagements have already taken place within a matter of days, suggesting that these actions are part of a broader, large-scale Russian offensive.

“Russian forces recently initiated a major offensive east and south of Donetsk on a 70-kilometer front. This assault has breached Ukrainian defenses in multiple areas within just a few days. The overall situation is very alarming, and Ukrainian forces are exhausted. The coming winter will likely be challenging,” Kastehelmi stated.

Earlier, Russia said it took control over Toretsk and Chasiv Yar in Donetsk Oblast, but Ukrainian authorities dismissed the claims.

Ukraine denies Russia’s full control over Donetsk Oblast’s Chasiv Yar, Toretsk

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