KYIV: Ukraine’s top commander, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, has disclosed that Russian forces are targeting the town of Chasiv Yar with the aim of capturing it by May 9, setting the stage for a pivotal battle in the east where Russia is concentrating its assaults.
The fall of Chasiv Yar, situated west of the devastated city of Bakhmut, by the date that marks Moscow’s celebration of Soviet victory in World War Two would signify a significant advancement for Russian forces, highlighting their growing battlefield momentum amidst a slowdown in Western military aid to Kyiv.
According to Colonel General Syrskyi, Russia’s strategic focus lies west of occupied Bakhmut, where efforts are concentrated on capturing Chasiv Yar before advancing towards Kramatorsk. Chasiv Yar, located in the Donetsk region, is merely 5-10 kilometers (3-6 miles) from Bakhmut, which fell to Russian forces last year after protracted conflict.
Ukrainian brigades are currently holding back Russian assaults near Chasiv Yar, bolstered by reinforcements in ammunition, drones, and electronic warfare capabilities, as detailed in a statement on Telegram by Colonel General Syrskyi.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov described the situation on the eastern front as “tense” in a Facebook post after visiting Ukrainian units, emphasizing that despite the enemy’s numerical superiority, Ukrainian defenders are effectively disrupting Russian plans through courage, training, and professionalism.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s annual May 9 military parade on Red Square serves as a backdrop for the intended capture of Chasiv Yar, indicating a high-stakes timeline for Russian operations in the region.
The war’s recent escalation includes three major Russian air strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, heightening concerns about the durability of Ukraine’s energy system, particularly after enduring a challenging first winter of conflict.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has cautioned Ukrainians about the escalating situation on the frontlines, particularly in Donetsk, and has warned of potential large-scale offensives from the Kremlin in the coming months.
As Ukraine grapples with manpower shortages and artillery shell deficiencies, analysts like Rob Lee highlight the strategic importance of Chasiv Yar, situated on defensible high ground, which could serve as a linchpin in Russia’s anticipated summer offensive deeper into Donetsk.
The battle for Chasiv Yar underscores the urgency for increased ammunition deliveries to Ukrainian forces as they fortify positions and counter Russian advances in the region.
