Days after Russia announced the capture of Soledar, Kiev now acknowledges that the Ukrainian city has fallen. Now Bachmut could be Moscow’s next target – US experts suspect a long fight is imminent.
Wagner’s mercenary group and pro-Russian fighters reported as early as January 10 that they had taken Soledar. Ukraine has denied these reports for days – but now the commander of a Ukrainian drone unit must announce that the city is lost. Russian troops have occupied the last industrial area held by Ukrainian troops in the far west of Soledar, Robert Brovdy explained on his Telegram channel.
“As of 5:30 pm, enemy assault units occupied the industrial area near mine number 7, located on the administrative boundary of the town of Soledar, and its western suburbs,” the report read. The front lines have now shifted to near the city limits and Ukraine continues to fight for the city.
Encirclement of Bakhmut as Moscow’s next target?
There are now fears of an offensive on the town of Bachmut, about 20 kilometers away. By capturing Soledar, Russian forces hope to encircle Bakhmut. Units could now try to approach from the north. However, the American think tank Institute for the Study of War estimates that the encirclement of the city, which previously had a population of 70,000, is still a distant goal for Moscow.
To cut off Ukraine’s supply line to Bakhmut, Russia would need to gain control of at least two highways west of captured Soledar. However, according to the think tank, Kiev also has other logistics routes.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
