The Russian advance on Pokrovsk has slowed down in recent days, but now Vuhledar, in the southern part of Donetsk Oblast, has become a new target for their offensive. This small mining town is often referred to as a “fortress” by the military and has been under consistent Russian attacks since the start of the full-scale invasion.
As part of their latest wave of offensives in Donetsk Oblast, Russian troops have resumed their assault on Vuhledar. While not a major logistics hub like Pokrovsk, the city is still crucial for Ukraine’s defenses on the southern front. Losing control of Vuhledar could have a significant impact on military operations in the area.
According to Federico Borsari, a fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA), the loss of Vuhledar would not only be a morale blow for Ukraine, but also a serious threat to the security of the entire southwestern portion of Donetsk Oblast. This could also pose a threat to the southern flank of Pokrovsk.
So why does Russia keep trying to seize Vuhledar? The town is strategically located north of a key intersection connecting important roads towards Vodiane, Kostiantynivka, Kurakhove, and Velyka Novosilka. It is a crucial logistic point for Ukrainian forces defending the southern flank of Kurakhove. With the Russian advance towards Pokrovsk from the east, Ukrainian forces need to prevent a similar development from the south to avoid being encircled.
Dmytro Zhmaylo, co-founder and executive director of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Center, believes that Russia’s military objectives are often influenced by ideological and psychological factors. Vuhledar is one of the towns that has long stood in the way of Russia’s goal to occupy Donetsk Oblast.
Despite their efforts, Russia has been unable to conquer Vuhledar. The town and its surroundings are heavily urbanized and situated on higher ground, making it difficult to seize. It has also been close to the front line since the beginning of the Russian invasion.
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