Russian victory in Chasiv Yar would jeopardize ‘last stronghold’ of Donetsk region, Ukrainians say

Ukrainians fear Russian triumph in Chasiv Yar threatens Donetsk's final bastion. Stay informed with our analysis

KYIV — An escalating Russian offensive aimed at capturing the Ukrainian-controlled city of Chasiv Yar poses a significant risk to the security of other Ukrainian-held cities in Donetsk, a senior Ukrainian official cautioned in an interview with POLITICO on Tuesday.

 

Lieutenant Colonel Nazar Voloshyn, spokesperson for the Ukrainian army, emphasized the potential ramifications of a Russian victory in Chasiv Yar. "If the Russian occupiers manage to capture this city, they will have the opportunity to launch an offensive on Kostiantynivka, Druzhkivka, Kramatorsk, and Sloviansk," he stated, underlining the strategic importance of these cities as the last bastion of Donetsk region under Ukrainian control.

 

Located just 10 kilometers from Bakhmut, Chasiv Yar holds significant strategic value due to its elevated terrain, ideal for defense, and its commanding position over the surrounding area. Despite being under the full control of Kyiv, the city is currently facing sustained attacks from Russian troops.

 

Voloshyn elaborated on the significance of Chasiv Yar, noting its pivotal role in facilitating potential Russian advances towards key cities in Donetsk. "This dominant height in the region, if seized by the Russian invaders, could significantly streamline their advance towards Kostiantynivka, Sloviansk, and Kramatorsk," he warned.

 

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the Kremlin's directive to seize Chasiv Yar before May 9, a date of symbolic importance in Russian military propaganda commemorating the Soviet victory in World War II. Russian military bloggers have also emphasized the strategic importance of Chasiv Yar in fulfilling broader objectives outlined by President Putin.

 

Despite facing relentless attacks, Ukrainian forces have remained resolute in their defense of Chasiv Yar. General Oleksandr Syrskiy, Ukraine’s army commander-in-chief, highlighted the steadfastness of Ukrainian troops, who have entrenched themselves to withstand daily assaults from Russian forces.

 

Russian tactics have involved exploiting numerical superiority to launch coordinated attacks, targeting civilian structures and critical infrastructure with artillery and aerial bombardment. Recent troop redeployments from nearby Lyman further underscore Russia's determination to capture Chasiv Yar.

 

Although Russian troops claim to be in close proximity to Chasiv Yar, Ukrainian authorities maintain control over the city and its environs. To bolster defenses, Ukrainian command has reinforced brigades with additional ammunition, drones, and electronic warfare equipment.

 

However, General Syrskiy stressed the need for morale and psychological support for Ukrainian troops, alongside improvements in training quality. While confident in Ukraine's ability to repel the ongoing offensive, Lieutenant Colonel Voloshyn emphasized the importance of Western support, particularly in terms of air defense systems and advanced weaponry, to counter Russia's military advantage in the region.

 

As the situation in Chasiv Yar remains fluid, the international community closely watches developments unfold amid heightened tensions between Ukraine and Russia.