Ukrainian troops have withdrawn from the embattled eastern town of Siversk, as Russia continues its slow and steady advance. The Ukrainian military said that it acted to preserve the lives of their soldiers and the combat capability of units, adding that Russian forces had a significant advantage in manpower.

 

The capture of Siversk brings Russia closer to the last remaining ‘fortress belt’ cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk still in Ukrainian hands in the industrial Donetsk region. Earlier yesterday, officials said three people – including a young child – were killed in massive overnight Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukraine. 

 

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and Moscow currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory. In a statement, the Ukrainian military said Russian troops were continuing active offensive actions in the Siversk area despite significant losses.