Ukraine forces retreat from Donbas town after onslaughtBy Andrew Meldrum, Associated PressUkrainian forces have conducted an organised retreat from a town in the eastern region of the Donbas, an official said. The accomplishment takes the Russian forces a step closer to Bakhmut, but military analysts say capturing Soledar is more symbolic than strategic. Ukraine’s military, which has held out in Soledar against a months-long onslaught of superior Russian forces, said its fierce defence of the eastern stronghold helped tie up Russian forces. Taking control of the town could allow Russian forces to cut supply lines to Ukrainian forces in Bakhmut, though the strength of Ukraine’s new defensive positions is unknown. It also said the long and difficult battle has contributed to the exhaustion of Russian forces.

Source: Irish Independent January 25, 2023 23:59 UTC