The Russian offensive against Toretsk began about four months ago. Invading forces made slow but steady advances despite suffering massive losses.
Russian troops now control eastern Toretsk and the southeastern part of this strategic city in Donetsk oblast, Ukrainian officials report. The situation is fluid and fierce street-bystreet combat continues.
The Russian offensive against Toretsk that began in June threatens to open up new advance routes towards key Ukrainian strengthholds in Donetsk Oblast such as Pokrovsk Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Toretsk, which could fall after Ukraine’s earlier withdrawal of Vuhledar would be another significant setback for the region.
In a television interview, Anastasia Bobovnikova said, “We are fighting for every street, every doorway.” She is the spokesperson for the Luhansk Operational-Tactical Group.
She said that while Russians are occupying parts of the city and Ukrainian forces continue to resist, in other areas.
Russian forces use small infantry groups consisting of 5-7 soldiers, supported by mortars and artillery. This tactic, which leverages Russia’s considerable manpower, has proved effective despite the high casualties.
The Ukrainian military has built fortifications near Toretsk in preparation for a possible withdrawal. Bobovnikova, however, insists that Russian forces will not achieve their larger objectives of fully occupying Donetsk or Luhansk Oblasts within the near future.
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