Russia grinds up the eastern approach to Sloviansk after its northeastern push stalled
Russian troops pushed to the edge of Pyskunivka and infiltrated Mykolaivka, the village that would give them a dry approach to the city.
Russian forces have made progress along the eastern route leading to Sloviansk, as reported by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). Following their initial push from the northeast, which ground to a halt, Russia now aims to establish a position for a future assault on Sloviansk, one of the last Ukrainian strongholds in Donetsk Oblast.
Experts note that a swift capture of the city remains improbable. The Russian campaign in eastern Ukraine this summer has seen incremental advances, with the army gaining ground in small villages and fields rather than decisive breakthroughs. Ukrainian military observers report Russian forces advancing across multiple areas simultaneously in the direction of Sloviansk, and they have reached the southeastern edge of Pyskunivka, east of the city.
The infiltration into Mykolaivka, from western Rai-Oleksandrivka, supports the assessment that Russia is consolidating positions to prepare for an assault on Mykolaivka and Sloviansk. Ukrainian officials express skepticism about Russia's plans, citing strong defensive positions around Mykolaivka and the logistical challenges involved.
Russia currently controls approximately 80% of Donetsk Oblast, with President Zelenskyy predicting a 300,000-man mobilization after the upcoming elections to bolster defenses.
Written by urgent.news from Euromaidan Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
