Russia steps up offensive in Donetsk Oblast, assaults Toretsk for first time in a year

High-rise building destroyed by a Russian strike in Toretsk on June 13

The Russians have reduced the intensity of their attacks in northern Kharkiv Oblast. The offensive in Kharkiv Oblast was primarily aimed at distracting Ukrainian troops to allow for increased activity in other parts of the front, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Activation in the Toretsk-Horlivka area began on the night of June 18, and from June 19 to June 22, the Russians maintained a relatively high intensity of attacks in this area, securing several tactical victories.

Read also: Russian strikes kill five, injure seven in Donetsk Oblast

Analysts note that Russian troops were generally inactive on this section of the front throughout 2024, so their recent activation and intensification "deserve attention."

In contrast, the pace of Russian offensive operations in northern Kharkiv Oblast has dropped sharply in recent days, especially compared to mid-May 2024.

Read also: Russian airstrike injures six people in Selydove, Donetsk Oblast

Ukrainian sources confirmed that some Ukrainian units were redeployed to the Kharkiv sector from Donetsk Oblast, potentially allowing Russian forces to intensify attacks, particularly in the Toretsk-Horlivka area.

Additionally, Russian troops are maintaining a high intensity of shelling in the Chasiv Yar sector and around Avdiivka after slowing down in Kharkiv Oblast and may soon intensify attacks in these areas.

Ukrainian sources also warned that Russia is likely to conduct a summer offensive centered in eastern Ukraine, and the recent activity in Donetsk Oblast may indicate preparations for such an offensive, if it has not already begun.

Read also: Russian soldiers behead Ukrainian POW in Donetsk Oblast

DeepState analysts reported that the Russians managed to capture Shumy in Donetsk Oblast and increased pressure on Toretsk on June 22. They believe the Russians will continue to build on their tactical success by bringing additional reserves to the area, aiming to occupy Toretsk.

Russian Advance in Donetsk Oblast

Russian forces advanced near the town of Chasiv Yar and northwest of Avdiivka, the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported on June 8.

Read also: Russians dropped guided bomb on private sector of Toretsk, at least three people are wounded

The DeepState monitoring group reported that Russian troops occupied the village of Ivanivske as of June 10.

Russian forces advanced near the village of Sokil and in the village of Novooleksandrivka, DeepState reported on June 16. UK intelligence confirmed that Russian forces likely gained control of Novooleksandrivka.

DeepState reported on June 14 that Russian forces occupied Novopokrovske in Donetsk Oblast. On June 16, DeepState reported further advancements near Sokol and in Novooleksandrivka, Pokrovsk district, Donetsk Oblast.

The ISW reported on June 18 that Russian troops were advancing west of Avdiivka. Footage with confirmed geolocation from June 16 and 17 showed Russian troops advancing south of Sokil village and north of Umanske.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine

Section: Nation

Author: Владислав Литнарович