Army Chief Reports Deteriorating Situation for Ukraine on Eastern Front Amid Intense Russian Assaults

Ukraine's chief commander reported that Kyiv's troops, outnumbered, have regrouped to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front, where Russia has concentrated significant forces. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi's statement reflects Ukraine's worsening situation, which it hopes to stabilize with the anticipated delivery of U.S. weapons under a $61 billion aid package approved recently.

In his message via the Telegram app, Syrskyi described the most challenging areas as being west of occupied Maryinka and northwest of Avdiivka. Kyiv's forces have relocated west of Berdychi, Semenivka, and Novomykhailivka, aiming to counter the tactical advances made by the enemy, despite Russia deploying four brigades in the assault.

To counter losses, rested Ukrainian brigades are rotating into these zones. Novobakhmutivka's status, near Berdychi, remains unmentioned, though Russia's defense ministry claims its capture.

Russian troops, capitalizing on Ukrainian deficiencies in artillery and manpower, have advanced approximately 15 km towards Ocheretyne since seizing Avdiivka. Chasiv Yar, strategically significant due to its elevated position, and Ivanivske to its northeast, are now focal points. While Russia claims to have repelled Ukrainian counter-attacks near Chasiv Yar, Col Gen Syrskiy notes increased Russian troop presence near Kharkiv, though no immediate offensive preparations are evident.

Despite Russian airstrikes targeting Ukrainian rail lines to disrupt U.S. weapons delivery, Ukraine anticipates the critical aid. Recently, Russian drones struck Mykolaiv, damaging infrastructure but causing no casualties. While Russia claims to target military sites, Kyiv alleges civilian targeting.