This was reported by the head of the Donetsk Regional Military Administration Pavlo Kyrylenko during the telethon broadcast.
A week ago, more than six thousand people remained in Bakhmut. However, currently there are less than five thousand, he says.
About 140 children also remain in the city. Nearly 12,000 children were evacuated.
At the same time, Kyrylenko emphasized that the number of people staying in Bakhmut should be reduced to a minimum.
He explained that only those people who have Bakhmut passes are now allowed to enter and leave the city.
"The military must focus on preparing defensive lines," Kyrylenko noted.
Currently, the Bakhmut direction remains the hottest spot of the frontline.
From Monday, February 13, civilians and the press can enter Bakhmut with special passes only.
Military expert Serhiy Zgurets said on Espreso that crucial events will happen around Bakhmut in the next few days.