The Armed Forces of Ukraine made the decision to withdraw their units from the city of Seversk in Donetsk region in order to preserve the lives of Ukrainian defenders and maintain the combat capability of military formations. This was reported by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Reasons for tactical withdrawal
According to military command, Russian occupiers have a significant advantage in manpower and equipment and, despite substantial losses, continue active offensive operations in the Seversk area.
"In order to preserve the lives of our soldiers and the combat capability of units, Ukrainian defenders withdrew from the settlement. Ukraine's defense forces exhausted the enemy during the battles for Seversk, every meter of the city came at a high price to the enemy," the General Staff emphasized.
Tactical situation
The department explained that the enemy was able to advance due to significant numerical superiority and constant pressure by small assault groups in difficult weather conditions. However, Ukrainian defenders maintain control over the situation.
"The city remains under fire control of our troops. Occupiers who are in the city are being defeated, their logistics are being cut off. Enemy units are being blocked to prevent their further advancement," the General Staff added.
Strategic significance
Ukrainian defenders continue to carry out combat missions in the Sloviansk direction, particularly to reduce the offensive potential of Russian forces. The situation in neighboring Serebrjanka, located northeast of Seversk, remains extremely difficult.
According to DeepState map data, as of December 22, Serebrjanka was under occupiers' control, and Seversk was partially captured, with most of the city in the "gray zone".
