Ukrainian forces liberate 20 sq. km around Bakhmut, but Russian troops advance in city, destroying it with artillery

"Information about the course of hostilities should be considered in the context of all defence operations and not taken out of the context of events. For example, within a few days, our troops liberated about 20 square kilometres of the Bakhmut suburbs in the north and south from the enemy," Ukraine Deputy Minister of Defense wrote.

Maliar emphasised that at the same time, the Russian army is making some progress in the city of Bakhmut itself, destroying it with artillery. The enemy is also deploying professional paratroopers.

"Heavy fighting continues with varying results. In this situation, our troops are doing their best and even more. The fact that the defence of Bakhmut has lasted for so many months and that there is progress in certain areas is due to the extraordinary efforts of our soldiers and the high level of professionalism of the defence command," explained Maliar.

She reminded that Russia has an advantage in terms of personnel and weapons: "At the same time, thanks to the actions of our military, it has not been able to implement its plans in the Bakhmut direction since last summer."

• On May 13, British intelligence reported that units of the 72nd Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade of the Russian Federation had chaotically withdrawn from their positions on the southern flank of the Bakhmut direction.

• On May 13, Ukrainian troops were reported to be gradually advancing in two directions in the suburbs of Bakhmut. 

• Ukrainian troops continue defensive operations in the Bakhmut sector and move forward in some areas of the frontline

• The American Institute for the Study of War confirmed that the Defense Forces had liberated 16.85 square kilometers in the area of Bakhmut, Donetsk region.

• On May 15, Land Forces Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi called the advance of Ukrainian troops in the Bakhmut area the first success of the offensive.