Ukrainian forces stabilize Bakhmut situation and cut off main Russian ammunition supply routes 

This was reported by the company commander of the 92nd separate mechanized brigade, Yuriy Fedorenko, on Espreso.

“In the ongoing intense battles, the Defense Forces have successfully stabilized the situation within the city and, in some areas, even managed to improve their positions by driving the enemy out of occupied positions. What’s more, they have effectively tightened the vise on the approaches to the city, completely thwarting the enemy's intentions and severing their main communication and supply routes. This has disrupted the flow of ammunition and reserves crucial for the enemy's defense,” he explained.

Fedorenko highlighted that although the Defense Forces have gained some initiative in certain directions, the fighting remains highly intense. The reason for this is the enemy's relentless deployment of their shock and assault capabilities, including manpower, equipment, artillery, and ammunition. According to the commander, these assault operations were initiated in areas of the front that had been relatively quiet for the past week or two.

"This is happening because the enemy has set a clear objective: anyone who fails to carry out aggressive assault actions or attempts to improve their position is immediately redirected towards Bakhmut. The city of Bakhmut is feared by the occupying forces to an extreme degree, and hardly anyone wants to go there," Fedorenko noted.

He emphasized that despite the enemy's efforts, the defense forces have successfully countered their assault actions, eliminating enemy groups and their equipment.

"However, it is crucial to understand that while we make these advances, it must be recognized that all these achievements come at an extremely high cost and through tremendous effort. We should not have any misconceptions that everything is fine and fully under control, or that the defense forces do not require any assistance. That is simply not true. Only through our collective efforts can we ensure a reliable outcome," Fedorenko emphasized.

• On May 15, the commander of the Ground Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi called Ukraine’s advance in the Bakhmut direction the first success of the counteroffensive.

• On May 16, UK intelligence confirmed that the Defense Forces of Ukraine had made tactical progress in the Bakhmut area, stabilizing the flanks and the city's key supply route.