Russia has 20,000-25,000 troops trying to storm the eastern Ukrainian town of Chasov Yar and surrounding villages. This was reported by “Reuters” on Monday, citing sources from the Ukrainian army.
The military described the situation in the area as difficult. Ukraine has full control of Chasov Yar, which sits on strategic high ground in the partially occupied Donetsk region, but Kiev’s top commander said Russia wants to capture the city by May 9, when the Soviet Union marks Victory Day in World War II.
“The situation around the city is difficult, but the situation is controllable. Our defenders are simultaneously receiving reinforcements and stabilizing the line,” said Nazar Voloshin, spokesman for the Eastern Military Command.
“Somewhere around 20,000-25,000 Russian servicemen are trying to storm Chasov Yar and the outskirts of settlements near it,” he said in televised comments on Suspilne public television.
The capture of Chasov Yar will bring Russia closer to two strategically important cities under Ukrainian control – Kramatorsk and Slavyansk. Russia is already moving ahead, but long-delayed US military aid is expected to reach Ukraine, easing a critical munitions shortage within days of expected final approval this week.
“It is difficult for our soldiers, but getting the necessary help will level the situation,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Telegram.
