He shared the information on Espreso TV.
"The situation in the Bakhmut direction remains difficult. Since July last year, the enemy has been trying to capture Bakhmut. The enemy has not made any progress, but is trying to advance with unprecedented force. The invaders are firing from all types of weapons, destroying Bakhmut and the nearest settlements to the ground," noted Konon.
According to him, Ukrainian defenders are holding Bakhmut and are not going to retreat.
"Bakhmut has turned into ruins, every building is either destroyed or damaged. There are still 5,000 to 7,000 civilians in the city," added Konon.
On February 20, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that it is important for Ukraine to defend Bakhmut, although not at any cost, but as long as it is reasonable.
The British Ministry of Defense writes that Russia may announce the capture of Bakhmut on the anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, regardless of who controls the city in Donetsk region.