Ukrainian forces crush Russians in Bakhmut, forcing retreat
The Ukrainian Armed Forces in Bakhmut exhausted Wagner Group and forced them to flee (Getty Images)
The Ukrainian military has successfully depleted the forces of the Wagner Private Military Company (PMC) in Bakhmut, compelling them to flee with significant casualties.
The above was reported be the spokesman for the Eastern Group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Serhiy Cherevaty.
"We achieved our primary objective: we exhausted and neutralized the enemy, compelling Wagner soldiers to retreat. We are currently launching powerful strikes against their remaining group. The replacement Wagner troops are hardly enthusiastic. They are well aware of what transpired with their predecessors, and their morale is far from optimal," Cherevaty said.
He further disclosed that the Russians, now engaging in rotation in Bakhmut, are employing heavy artillery fire to cover up their activities.
During the previous day alone, the occupying forces unleashed a barrage of 452 cannon artillery and multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) attacks on Ukrainian positions, in addition to conducting six air raids. However, no direct combat clashes were reported.
"We refuse to grant the enemy a peaceful rotation. We strike back. As a result, 107 enemy combatants have been killed, 126 wounded, we have destroyed an enemy infantry fighting vehicle, seven cannons, a self-propelled artillery system called Peon, three field ammunition depots, and four military vehicles," the spokesman said.
Western media have reported casualties within the ranks of the Wagner PMC ranging from 60,000 to 100,000 wounded and killed fighters.
Cherevaty said that many find the reported figure of at least 20,000 deaths during the attempt to seize Bakhmut incredibly high.
Current situation in Bakhmut
The Russians are now regrouping in the Bakhmut region. The Wagner PMC is withdrawing its troops, while the regular Russian Federation army is taking over operations.
According to the Ministry of Defense, the Russians maintain control over the majority of Bakhmut, but the Ukrainian Defense Forces hold strategic positions on the flanks, actively working to encircle Bakhmut.
The National Guard reported that the occupiers in the Bakhmut sector have almost lost their initiative and are now on the defensive.
