Bakhmut is destroyed, fighting continues in city’s southwestern part – Cherevaty

According to Cherevaty, Russia is attaching excessive symbolic significance to Bakhmut.

"Russia is emphasizing Bakhmut as if they have captured the entire Dnipro. However, they haven't completely taken it. The city is in ruins, offering them no significant military or political advantage. It took them nine months to capture this district center. We are applying pressure on their flanks, denying them any rest, and, if possible, preparing for a counterattack," he added.

• On May 20, the leader of the Russian Wagner PMC, Yevgeny Prigozhin, released a video claiming the complete occupation of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut by Russian forces. In response, Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Hanna Malyar, stated that intense battles are taking place in Bakhmut and the situation is critical. Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops are maintaining their defense in the "Litak" area.

• During the evening briefing on May 20 and the morning briefing on May 21, the General Staff discussed the ongoing battles for the city.

• At midnight on May 21, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced the capture of the city.