Ukraine’s army has retreated from crucial positions in Chasiv Yar, an important town in the eastern Donetsk region, following relentless Russian attacks. The withdrawal was announced on Thursday as Russian forces continue their advance.
Strategic Withdrawal
Ukrainian military spokesperson Nazar Voloshyn confirmed the retreat from the outskirts of Chasiv Yar, citing the devastating impact of continuous Russian shelling. The town’s strategic location on elevated ground makes it a key target, as its capture could jeopardize nearby cities, disrupt Ukrainian supply routes, and bring Russia closer to controlling the Donetsk region.
Devastation and Outnumbered Forces
Months of Russian artillery strikes have turned Chasiv Yar into a ghost town, with homes and offices left charred and abandoned. Once home to 12,000 people, the town is now deserted. Oleh Shriaiev, a battalion commander in the area, reported that Russian troops outnumber Ukrainian forces 10 to 1 and have carried out nearly 1,300 strikes, fired 130 glide bombs, and conducted 44 ground assaults in the past week alone.
Putin’s Stance on Ceasefire
At a Central Asian summit in Kazakhstan, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia cannot agree to a ceasefire without clear, irreversible agreements from Ukraine. He expressed concern that a ceasefire would allow Ukraine to regroup and rearm, prolonging the conflict. Putin emphasized that any ceasefire must come with guaranteed commitments, dismissing the possibility of agreements mediated by third parties.
Zelenskyy Honors Police on National Police Day
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented state awards to law enforcement officers in Kyiv on Ukraine’s National Police Day. He praised the National Police for their role in evacuating civilians from front-line towns and assisting those under Russian attack, acknowledging their crucial contribution to the nation’s defense and security.
