The owner of Russia’s Wagner Group military contractor claimed Wednesday that his troops have extended their gains in the Ukrainian stronghold of Bakhmut, but it remained unclear how long the grinding fight that has exacted heavy losses might continue, reports AP.
The battle for the city the Ukrainians have dubbed “fortress Bakhmut” has become emblematic of the way each side has tried to wear down the other.
As per report, Russian forces must go through Bakhmut in order to push deeper into the areas in Donetsk province they don’t yet control.
Bakhmut has been the focus of much of the fighting in recent months, as each side hopes it can inflict severe damage on other there — while buying time to prepare offensives elsewhere.
It’s not clear which has paid a higher price in the battle, which has lasted six months and reduced the city with a prewar population of more than 70,000 to a smoldering wasteland.
Bd-pratidin English/Golam Rosul
