Russian forces have reduced assault operations across three key directions – Kramatorsk, Toretsk, and Siversk – signaling a likely tactical pause, reports Anastasiia Bobovnikova, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Luhansk Operational-Tactical Group.

These areas are vital parts of the Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine. Russia’s primary war objective remains full control of the Donbas, comprising Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Currently, Russian forces occupy 95% of Luhansk and over half of Donetsk Oblast.

“We’re seeing decreased assault activity in these directions,” Bobovnikova said during a Ukrainian television broadcast. “Our assessment suggests the enemy has taken a tactical pause to regroup and reinforce their manpower.”

She warned that Russian forces likely aim to replenish ammunition and weapons and redeploy equipment during this pause before resuming attacks at previous intensity levels.

“The situation in Toretsk has stabilized somewhat. We maintain our defensive lines,” Bobovnikova reported. “While Russian forces hold positions in the city’s eastern districts, we’ve successfully halted their advance and continue defending the city effectively.”

The Russian offensive on Toretsk, launched in June, threatens to create new advancement routes toward key Ukrainian strongholds – Pokrovsk, Kramatorsk, and Sloviansk. Should Toretsk fall following Ukraine’s withdrawal from Vuhledar, it would mark another significant regional setback for Ukrainian forces.

Read more:

• Ukrainian military: Russians hold east, southeast of strategic Toretsk, Donetsk Oblast
• Frontline report: Ukraine’s demolition squads turn Toretsk high-rises into Russian trap
• Ukrainian military says Russian forces amass troops for new assaults on Toretsk in Donetsk Oblast