Russian troops successfully took control of the eastern Ukrainian town of Vuhledar in the Donetsk region after enduring over two years of attacks following the Kremlin's invasion. This development underscores Russia's significant manpower advantage over Ukraine, prompting Kyiv to appeal to the West for increased and expedited supplies of weaponry.
The 72nd Mechanized Brigade of Ukraine's Armed Forces, known for its resilient defense, confirmed that wounded soldiers were safely evacuated under challenging circumstances. The press officer highlighted the complexities faced due to enemy pressure from the flanks, making logistics extremely difficult in the midst of war.
Ukraine's eastern military command ordered a strategic withdrawal from Vuhledar to prevent encirclement by Russian forces and to safeguard personnel and military equipment. The town, once home to around 14,000 residents, has been a frontline battleground since the conflict's inception, with most inhabitants having evacuated long ago.
Visual evidence depicts the extensive damage inflicted on Vuhledar by relentless Russian bombardment, leaving many structures abandoned, shrouded in smoke, and in ruins. Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed intentions to seize the entire Donbas region from Ukraine, with his troops currently controlling an estimated 80% of the area.
The final Ukrainian troops departed from Vuhledar on Tuesday night, following the commanding officer's decision to withdraw the brigade. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy supported the move, emphasizing the paramount importance of protecting the lives of soldiers over buildings. Zelenskyy reiterated the significance of preserving the lives of Ukrainian citizens and military personnel in the face of ongoing conflict.
