Recent drone footage obtained by The Associated Press has unveiled the harrowing aftermath of relentless Russian artillery attacks on the strategic city of Chasiv Yar in eastern Ukraine. The once-thriving community, nestled amidst lush green fields and woodland, now lies in ruins, with barely a building left standing. The footage paints a grim picture of a town that has been all but deserted, its population of 12,000 displaced by the ongoing conflict.
Chasiv Yar, a city of strategic importance, has been the target of sustained Russian assaults for months. The city's capture would grant Russia control of a crucial hilltop position, enabling further attacks on key cities that serve as the backbone of Ukraine's eastern defenses. Russian forces have launched multiple offensives on the outnumbered Ukrainian troops in Chasiv Yar, who are facing severe ammunition shortages while awaiting fresh supplies from allies.
The drone footage reveals a scene of utter devastation, with rows of apartment blocks reduced to rubble, houses and civic buildings heavily damaged, and the once-intact church showing signs of significant structural harm. The scorched-earth tactics employed by Russian troops have left a trail of destruction in their wake, resulting in the loss of lives and the displacement of thousands of civilians.
Located on high ground, Chasiv Yar presents a strategic vantage point for Russia to advance towards major cities in the eastern Donetsk region. The potential capture of Chasiv Yar could pave the way for a broader Russian offensive, with Ukrainian officials warning of a possible escalation in the coming months.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has acknowledged the challenges faced by Ukraine due to delayed military aid deliveries from allied countries, leaving the nation vulnerable to the superior firepower of Russian forces. Efforts are underway to expedite the deployment of critical military assistance to Ukraine to counter the advancing Russian troops and defend against drone and missile attacks.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to unfold, the international community remains vigilant, monitoring developments on the ground and providing support to mitigate the humanitarian crisis and safeguard Ukraine's sovereignty.
Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at AP News
