Ukraine’s principal commander has reported that Kyiv’s outnumbered forces have withdrawn to fresh positions west of three villages on the eastern front, where Russia has amassed significant forces in multiple areas.
In a statement on Sunday, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskii acknowledged Ukraine’s increasingly challenging situation in the east. Kyiv aims to stabilize this front with the anticipated receipt of military aid from the United States, following the approval of a $61 billion aid package.
Syrskii highlighted the most critical areas as lying to the west of occupied Maryinka and northwest of Avdiivka, which fell under Russian control in February. Ukrainian troops have repositioned themselves to the west of Berdychi and Semenivka, both situated north of Avdiivka, as well as Novomykhailivka, located further south near Maryinka.
Despite facing tactical setbacks, Syrskii noted that Ukrainian forces managed to prevent the enemy from gaining operational advantages. He mentioned the commitment of four Russian brigades to the assault. To replenish depleted units, freshly rested Ukrainian brigades are being rotated into these areas.
While the statement did not address the status of Novobakhmutivka, another village near Berdychi reportedly captured by Russian forces, Al Jazeera correspondent John Holman emphasized the concentration of Russian forces along various points of the front line. Holman highlighted the superior ammunition and air power of the Russian side, which has granted them the initiative on the battlefield.
Reports from Ukrainian army personnel suggest a significant disparity in firepower, with Ukrainian forces reportedly out-shelled six or seven to one. The pending arrival of US aid is expected to help bridge this gap, crucially aiding Ukraine in repelling Russia’s ongoing invasion.
Since the capture of Avdiivka, Moscow’s troops have steadily advanced, exploiting Ukrainian shortages in artillery shells and manpower. Satellite imagery indicates an advance of over 15 kilometers towards Ocheretyne from Avdiivka.
Chasiv Yar, a town under Ukrainian control, has emerged as a pivotal battleground due to its strategic elevation, potentially offering access to Kostiantynivka, Sloviansk, and Kramatorsk. Syrskii identified Chasiv Yar and the adjacent village of Ivanivske as focal points of conflict. Russian forces claim to have thwarted Ukrainian counterattacks near Chasiv Yar.
Additionally, there are concerns about an increase in Russian troop presence near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, just 30 kilometers from the Russian border. Kharkiv has endured extensive air attacks, allegedly orchestrated by Moscow to render it uninhabitable. Syrskii noted signs of Russian preparations for an offensive in the north, prompting reinforcement of Ukrainian troops with artillery and tank units in critical directions.
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