Prigozhin refutes Bakhmut's encirclement and calls work of Ukrainian Armed Forces "meat grinder"

Yevgeny Prigozhin’s press service said this in response to a request from Russian propagandists.

"I don't understand where this nonsense comes from. The enemy is activating in all directions, pulling up more and more reserves. Every day from 300 to 500 new fighters approach Bakhmut from all directions. Artillery fire is intensifying every day. Heavy fighting is taking place in the north today. There are no prerequisites for encircling the enemy in the northern areas. Evey house, every square is being stormed. The most difficult combat work is underway. It is not clear where the stories about some kind of encirclement and other things come from," noted Prigozhin.

He added that Bakhmut will not be taken tomorrow, as there is heavy resistance and grinding, the “meat grinder” is working, so it is not the time to "start celebrating."

"There will be no holiday in the near future. Therefore, there is absolutely no point in reasoning and demoralizing everyone with your unfulfilled promises. It feels like everyone has run away and there is no one here, Ukraine is empty, and we are hindering – we can't get in. Everyone is welcome: "Let's go, take our assault rifles and run to grab the 'surrounded' enemy by the ass!" the PMC head summarized.