Bakhmut battle escalates. Russia attempts to reclaim lost ground in Donbas
As disclosed by Volodymyr Fitio, a spokesperson for the command of the Ukrainian ground forces, Russian troops have "gathered appropriate reserves" and have begun offensive operations near Bakhmut. It's reported that the Russians are attempting to retake positions they previously lost, with concentrated attacks on Klishchiivka and severe damage inflicted on the defenders of Avdiivka. In less than a day, Avdiivka has been assaulted ten times. Recently, a video surfaced online showing the dropping of incendiary ammunition on Ukrainian defenders.
11:02 AM EST, November 21, 2023
The command of the Ukrainian ground forces spokesperson, Volodymyr Fitio, provided an update on the situation at the front while on Ukrainian television. His remarks suggested that the Russian troops "have gathered appropriate reserves" and stand ready for offensive operations in the vicinity of Bakhmut.
Russians show determination
Fitio underscored that the Russians are seemingly determined to regain the positions they previously lost. Their primary attacks are directed towards Kliszczijiwka, a village located near areas once recovered by Ukrainian forces in September.
Via an explanation from the Ukrainian Ground Forces Command spokesperson: "The situation around Bakhmut remains tense as the enemy has transitioned from defensive to offensive operations over the past two weeks, aiming to retake positions they lost previously."
Avdiivka under fire
For several days now, Russians have also been storming Avdiivka in the Donetsk region. A video posted online captures the moment incendiary ammunition is dropped on Ukrainian defenders.
Looking back, in May 2023, the Russians seized Bakhmut in Donbas, which resulted in substantial personnel losses. Although Russian entities admitted that the city had no strategic significance, they seem resolved to regain lost positions, as apparent from their recent activity near Bakhmut.