Updated on 03/25/2023 11:09 am
According to British intelligence services, the Russian attack on the city of Bakhmut, in eastern Ukraine, is practically at a standstill. “This is likely to be primarily a result of the significant losses suffered by Russian forces,” the British Ministry of Defense said on Saturday. “It is likely that the situation for the Russians has also worsened due to tensions between the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Wagner Group, which are sending units to this sector of the front.” Ukraine also suffered heavy losses in the month-long battle for Bakhmut, it was emphasized in London.
Russia’s focus is now more on the town of Avdiivka further south and on the front near Kreminna and Swatowe north of Bakhmut. The Russians wanted to stabilize the front line there, it was said. This indicates Russian troops are becoming more defensive after attempts at a major offensive failed to produce “conclusive results” since January.
The British Ministry of Defense has released daily updates on the course of the war since Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine began in February 2022, citing intelligence information. In doing so, the British government wants to counter the Russian portrayal and keep the Allies in line. Moscow accuses London of a disinformation campaign. © dpa