Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Europe.
Ukrainian Troops Forced to Retreat Amid Heavy Bombardment
Russian forces have reportedly seized full control of the strategic eastern city of Vuhledar in Ukraine, marking a significant development in Moscow's ongoing invasion. The city, which has been fiercely defended by Ukrainian troops for over two years, is now largely under Russian control after a series of tactical advances and heavy bombardment.
A Hard Fought Battle for Control
Ukraine's eastern military command confirmed that remaining troops in Vuhledar were ordered to withdraw to avoid being surrounded by Russian forces. The withdrawal comes after Russian troops executed a pincer movement, capturing key villages on either side of the city and cutting off vital supply and evacuation routes.
For months, Vuhledar has been the focus of Russian efforts, with Moscow seeking to secure the city as a springboard for advancing toward critical transportation hubs further north. Ukrainian forces held their ground until recently, enduring relentless attacks from Russian drones, artillery, and thermobaric weapons.
Tactical Withdrawal Under Fire
The situation for Ukrainian defenders became critical when Russian troops moved into the city, forcing many units to retreat without formal orders. Ukrainian soldiers described chaotic conditions, with broken communication lines and heavy fire leaving them to make difficult decisions in the heat of battle. One soldier noted the withdrawal was inevitable: "You either die or retreat."
Attempts to evacuate wounded soldiers and bring in supplies were largely unsuccessful, with Russian forces targeting any vehicles or movement along the main road out of Vuhledar. Survivors reported that their escape had to be carried out on foot, under the cover of darkness, through minefields and dangerous terrain.
Exhaustion and Frustration Among Ukrainian Troops
Many of the Ukrainian soldiers who managed to escape expressed exhaustion and frustration. Several were critical of their commanders for not ordering a retreat sooner, arguing that it had been clear for some time that the city could not be held against Russia’s overwhelming firepower.
The Ukrainian General Staff has been notably silent on the situation in Vuhledar in recent briefings, instead focusing on Russian attacks in nearby areas. Official military statements have not yet confirmed the full capture of the city, but reports from soldiers on the ground and local authorities suggest that Russian forces have now solidified control.
Humanitarian Crisis in Vuhledar
Vuhledar, once home to 14,000 people, has seen its population reduced to just over 100 civilians as fighting rages on. Local officials have expressed concern over the remaining residents, as access to humanitarian aid, water, and medicine has become nearly impossible due to the ongoing conflict. The Donetsk regional head confirmed that all children had been evacuated, but efforts to reach the remaining civilians are fraught with danger.
With Russian troops now occupying Vuhledar, the battle for eastern Ukraine enters a new phase, with the focus likely shifting to other strategic locations in the region. As Ukraine regroups, the fallout from the loss of Vuhledar will weigh heavily on its military and political leadership as they continue to defend against Moscow’s ambitions.
