Ukrainian troops withdraw from disadvantageous positions in Donetsk region – military

This was reported by Serhiy Nayev, the commander of the tactical group holding the defense in one of the areas of Donetsk region.

"The most important thing for the command is to preserve the lives and health of personnel. That’s why a decision was made to pull back forces and equipment from disadvantageous positions," he said.

According to Nayev, this not only saved soldiers' lives but also strengthened Ukraine’s defense.

"The enemy is taking losses, and we now have the opportunity to act more effectively," he added.

The commander noted that in his two months in command, he has been on the front line almost every day, speaking directly with the military.

"These are strong and dedicated soldiers who do their job daily, despite fatigue, weather, and circumstances. Among them are those who have been fighting since 2014 and those who joined in 2022 or later. Each has their own path in the army, their own experience. But one thing unites them all — the desire to bring Victory closer," said Nayev.

He also reported that over the past month, thanks to the coordinated efforts of scouts, drone operators, artillerymen, mortarmen, tankers, and infantry, more than 30 Russian armored vehicles were destoyed and over 2,000 Russian soldiers were eliminated.

• According to Ukraine's General Staff, 155 combat clashes took place at the front on March 17. Ukrainian defenders repelled 44 Russian attacks in the Pokrovsk direction and 25 in the Toretsk sector.