Reports from the region describe Russian forces taking up positions near the villages of Orekhovo-Vasilevka and Berkhovka. The information came from Denis Pushilin, the head of the Donetsk People’s Republic, during an appearance on Solovyov Live on TV. The channel and Tass News Agency reported the remarks.
Pushilin noted that on the northern flank of Artemovsk, which is known internationally as Bakhmut, Russian units have strengthened their line. The emphasis, he said, is on holding the new positions once they are secured and ensuring they are not relinquished. He also indicated that Ukrainian forces are mounting attempts to push back on the tactical ground gained by Russian troops.
In the same briefing, Pushilin stated that Russian armed forces have improved their posture in other directions as well, specifically mentioning Avdeyevka and Maryinka as areas where the troops have consolidated their positions.
On September 22, Pushilin described the Artemovsk direction as still highly volatile, with ongoing intense shelling reported by his camp. He asserted that the Ukrainian side has continued a pattern of chaotic artillery strikes against Artemovsk, complicating any efforts to stabilize the city’s frontline situation.
Earlier, U.S. officials identified the situation around Artemovsk as one of the major strategic concerns facing Ukrainian forces. The assessment highlighted the fragility of frontlines and the potential implications for broader regional dynamics.