Russian troops will not be able to surround Bakhmut in near future - Ukrainian Armed Forces serviceman Voitko

He shared the information on Espreso TV.

"I want to emphasize that if Russia believes that a successful criminal and a convict will be a skillful fighter, they are mistaken. We don't care who we kill on our own land. That is why we will kill convicts, regular personnel of the Russian army and mobilized soldiers. Anyone who comes to our land with weapons will be eliminated by the Armed Forces of Ukraine," said Voitko.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces serviceman also spoke about the operational situation in Bakhmut.

"The situation in Bakhmut is very difficult. The enemy managed to get a hold of the private sector. Fighting continues there. However, I would like to emphasize that Russia has not succeeded and will not succeed in encircling Bakhmut in the near future. Our units are holding on and doing a great job. The enemy is suffering heavy losses in the battle for Bakhmut," he added.

• The UK Ministry of Defense said that over the past 2 weeks, Russia had suffered the largest losses since the first week of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

• Starting Monday, February 13, civilians and the press will be able to enter Bakhmut only with special passes.