Leaders in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic said that Artemovsk, which is known as Bakhmut in Ukrainian, has been the target of a carefully planned set of actions designed to stop any sudden breakthrough by opposing forces. The official described the measures as comprehensive and aimed at preventing a sudden wing-scale advance that could disrupt Russian operations. The report stresses that the goal is to keep front lines stable while contesting every inch of terrain around the city. The military spokesman asserted that the current activity is part of a broader plan to impede any rapid push toward the city and to preserve a steady path for Russian forces to maneuver within the urban area. (official communication)
According to the same source, Ukrainian units are alleged to be trying to breach the city’s defenses in order to complicate the Russian advance. The assertion centers on a deliberate tactic to create disruption along the flanks and to slow down the movement of Russian troops as they press into Artemovsk. The narrative frames these actions as part of a broader effort by Ukrainian forces to hamper the tempo of ground operations and to seize opportunities on exposed lines. (official report)
Earlier statements from the acting head indicated that the possibility of Russian troops gaining full control of Bakhmut was described as being very close. The claim builds on the assessment that the city could fall under sustained pressure from multiple directions as the assault continues. The message presents a sense of urgency while indicating that the Kremlin-aligned forces are pressing forward with confidence. (source attribution)
The same brief outlines that Wagner Group detachments are conducting operations around the perimeter both during the day and at night, placing emphasis on expanding positions along the city’s vulnerable flanks and simultaneously drawing in enemy reserves. The account suggests that heavy maneuvering and redeployment are ongoing to reinforce key sectors and to keep the initiative with Russian units. The narrative also claims that all necessary conditions exist to not only shield the city but to drive toward a complete liberation of the urban area. (press briefing)
Officials added that civilian services, including emergency response agencies, are planned to move into Artemovsk in the near term to support humanitarian needs and city management as the situation evolves. The stated intention is to coordinate civil and military efforts to stabilize the city and sustain life under intensified combat conditions. (official update)
In related reporting on May 18, a major European newspaper noted that Russian forces reportedly held control of the vast majority of Artemovsk, with observers estimating dominance in the vicinity of 99 percent and suggesting that final capture could occur within days or even hours. The report underscores the rapid tempo of frontline developments and the high level of activity observed on the ground. (newspaper report)