The Russian army has been trying unsuccessfully to enter Bakhmut, Donetsk region, for several months. To occupy the city, the invaders need to pass the suburb – Soledar. These small towns are critical strategic points, as well as deposits of Ukrainian salt and underground roads. But so far, Russia is only destroying these 2 cities with artillery, transferring more of its fighters there, including private bloodthirsty Wagner fighters.
CNN journalists in Soledar talk about fierce fighting. Their fresh regiment says that the Ukrainian military is not going to surrender and leave the city, despite the loss of part of the city in 11 days of the new year. Maxar Technology has received satellite imagery confirming the almost complete destruction of cities.
It is interesting that in 2014 the headquarters of the Joint Control and Coordination Centre on the Russian-Ukrainian conflict was established in Soledar. The body included Russian and Ukrainian military and OSCE representatives. In 2017, the Kremlin broke off relations with the centre. Today, Russia is again on that land, but it is doing destruction.
Deputy minister of defence Hanna Maliar reports that fierce fighting is taking place, and the enemy has once again reinforced its forces with the help of hired Wagner fighters. Based on recent events, the NATO secretary general called on the international community to strengthen support for Ukrainians.
"Last days, we saw the fierce battles around Bakhmut and Soledar in the east of Ukraine. This shows once again the courage of the Ukrainian military, who are fighting to defend their homeland. It also shows how vital it is that we will strengthen our military support for Ukraine," Stoltenberg said.
Despite the real hell on earth, Ukrainian volunteers continue to evacuate residents from Bakhmut.
