Russian forces close in on Chasiv Yar despite Ukrainian defences
11:59 AM EDT, March 25, 2024
Russian forces are advancing towards the town of Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. "The capture of this area by the aggressor within the next few months seems unlikely," according to the latest report by the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
On Saturday, Moscow's Ministry of Defense claimed that their forces had taken control of Iwaniwske, a village situated between Chasiv Yar and Bachmut, which is under Russian control.
The following day, pro-Russian military bloggers, or internet commentators who support the aggression against Ukraine, claimed that the invasion forces had reached the outskirts of Chasiv Yar. "However, the most likely estimates place Russian military positions about 0.9 miles east of the town's perimeter," states the report from the think tank.
ISW observed that Ukrainian engineering units had constructed a ring-shaped barrier around Chasiv Yar, significantly impeding Russian efforts to encircle or capture the town. This is particularly notable since the invaders seem to have opted against rerouting larger forces from Avdiivka to the frontline near Bachmut.
Russians target a strategic point, battles could extend for months
The think tank believes that capturing Chasiv Yar might be more operationally significant for Russia than their February conquest of the larger town of Avdiivka, near Donetsk.
Analysts suggest that if Russian forces gain control of Chasiv Yar, they might launch an offensive towards Kostiantynivka, a goal the Kremlin has long considered crucial in the Donbas.
Before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Chasiv Yar was home to about 12,000 people. Located approximately 9.3 miles west of Bachmut, captured and ravaged by the invading forces in May 2023, Chasiv Yar has provided refuge for many civilians from Bachmut and nearby areas over the last two years.
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Source: PAP
