Russia Advances in Chasiv Yar, Reportedly Claiming Significant Control of the City (Updated)

The Ukrainian military has stated that Russian forces have taken control of a significant portion of the town of Chasiv Yar.

“Russian forces have seized approximately 40% of Chasiv Yar,” according to Andrii Polukhin, a spokesperson for the 24th Mechanized Brigade.

Polukhin warned that if the entire city falls under Russian control, it could give them a significant tactical advantage due to Chasiv Yar’s elevated position overlooking nearby cities like Kostyantynivka, Druzhkivka, and Kramatorsk. Additionally, the city’s strategic location could disrupt vital logistical routes connecting these urban centers.

The potential capture of Chasiv Yar poses a serious threat to Ukrainian efforts to defend the Donetsk region within its administrative borders, according to the statement.

The Ukrainian 225th Assault Battalion has been fighting in the city of Chasiv Yar for more than four months. At one point, their positions were completely surrounded by Russian troops, forcing them to defend themselves in a circle for 70 days.

Previously, the Ukrainian authorities started a forced evacuation of children with their parents from settlements in the Kostiantynivka and Selydove municipalities, listing around 20 cities and villages.