UK intelligence says Russia seizes Bakhmut center

Synopsis

A UK intelligence report indicates that Russian forces have made significant advances in the eastern city of Bakhmut, claiming control over the city center and the Western Bank of the Bakbudka River. This development threatens Ukrainian supply lines, although Ukraine denies the report, acknowledging the challenging situation. Bakhmut has been a focal point of intense fighting for over eight months, with both sides engaged in a grueling street-to-street battle. A spokesperson for the Ukrainian military states that while Russian forces are gaining ground, they are also preparing new defensive lines in the western part of the city. The head of the Wagner Group, Evgeny Prigozhin, asserts that Ukrainian forces are not retreating and are readying for further defense. The ongoing conflict highlights the complexities of the battle for Bakhmut, as both sides continue to vie for control amidst a backdrop of shifting front lines.