Russia-Ukraine war: UK suggests 'battle for Sloviansk' to be next key challenge in Donbas

As Russia-Ukraine war continues unabated for 133rd day, UK Defence Ministry said in its latest intelligence update that Russian troops from eastern and western groups are likely around 16 kilometres rth of Ukrainian city of Sloviansk, in Donetsk region. Ever since Luhansk was captured by Russian army, Sloviansk has been gearing up for an incoming battle with Moscow’s forces vancing more into Donetsk region.

“With town also under threat from central and sourn groups of forces, re is a realistic possibility that battle for Sloviansk will be next key contest in struggle for Donbas,” ministry said on July 6.

British Defence Ministry said in its latest intelligence briefing that most of Russia’s remaining available units from eastern and western groups have been focused on rrn Izium axis. It also said that “Russia likely continues to consolidate its control over Lysychansk and Luhansk Oblast. To rth, it has committed most of remaining available units from Eastern and Western Groups of Forces to Izium axis.”

Two killed, seven wounded in Sloviansk: Local authorities

Meanwhile, as Russian army ramps up its attacks in Donetsk region, at least two people have been killed and seven were left wounded amid Moscow’s offensive in eastern Ukrainian city of Sloviansk. Pavlo Kyrylenko, goverr of Donetsk region, which includes Sloviansk, said on Telegram on Tuesday that two people died in shelling which mayor said hit city market. reported attack on a market came as Russia continues to deny that its forces are targeting any civilian areas.

Kyrylenko said, “Once again Russians are intentionally targeting places where civilians assemble. This is terrorism pure and simple” while calling on residents to evacuate city. Moreover, Sloviansk Mayor Vym Lyakh said on Facebook that city was under intense attack by Russia and urged locals to stay sheltered. 

“Sloviansk! Massive shelling of city. centre, rth. Everyone, take shelter,” Lyakh wrote on Facebook. According to Sloviansk Mayor, at least 40 houses were damd due to Russian shelling. 

Im: AP