Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Tuesday that the capture of the industrial town of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine was key to launching a further offensive in the wider Donetsk region.

 

"This city is an important defensive hub for Ukrainian troops in Donbas. Capturing it will allow for further offensive operations deep into the defense lines of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," Shoigu said during a televised meeting of military officials.

To suggest a correction or clarification, write to us here
You can also highlight the text and press Ctrl + Enter