Bakhmut is switching to checkpoint system - AFU Commander Madiar

Robert Brovdi (call sign Madiar), platoon commander of the 2nd assault company of the 28th separate mechanized brigade named after the Knights of the Winter Campaign, reported the information.

He says the change is necessary to avoid endangering civilians.

"Starting tomorrow, civilian access to Bakhmut will be closed. It is difficult to be safe from enemy subversive groups entering the city and endangering even volunteers who come here to help the locals," he commented. 

Madiar notes that the Ukrainian military will continue to bring aid to the locals who remain in the city in order not to endanger civilians and volunteers who bring humanitarian aid and other essentials.

"I think this ban is necessary because it is dangerous here. The situation is under control, but it is controlled by the military and there is no way to ensure the safety of every civilian, so please understand this," he added.

• Over the past day, Russia lost 5 T-72 tanks, 1 Tigr armored vehicle, 1 Tyulpan mortar and 2 Pion self-propelled artillery systems in the Bakhmut direction.