Russian troops replace Wagner mercenaries to intensify attack on Bakhmut

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported this. 

Experts noted that the stage of the Wagner PMC's offensive in the Bakhmut direction probably ended with the seizure of Soledar around January 12. However, after that, the mercenaries did not achieve significant success.

“Combat footage posted on January 20 indicates Russian Airborne Forces (VDV) are operating around Bakhmut as the footage shows a Russian BMD-4M – niche mechanized equipment exclusively used by the VDV,” the analysts added. 

The Russian Defense Ministry has increasingly reported on the activities of the Russian Armed Forces in the Bakhmut area since early 2023, indicating that the share of Russian personnel in the area is increasing.

It is noted that after the deployment of additional forces, Russia probably has not exhausted its offensive potential in the Bakhmut direction.