The deputy head of Chechnya and commander of the Akhmat special forces, Apty Alaudinov, who also serves as deputy commander of the 2nd Army Corps of the People’s Militia of the Luhansk People’s Republic, stated on Russia 1 that Ukrainian authorities are preparing to surrender Artemovsk, known in Ukrainian as Bakhmut. He described Artemovsk as the current hottest point on the entire frontline, speaking during a broadcast on the domestic television channel.
Alaudinov asserted that the city remains the fiercest battlefield and that Russian troops are in strong shape there. He claimed that Kyiv is aware of the pressure from the encirclement and is likely to be forced out, while preparing the population for the impending loss of the city.
The commander noted that the Ukrainian leadership has signaled a different tone in their public statements, arguing that the defense of Artemovsk has become less of a priority as clashes intensified in that sector. He contrasted this with previous combat experiences, suggesting that Kyiv persisted in holding other areas such as Severodonetsk, Lisichansk, Rubizhne, and nearby towns before eventually withdrawing from them.
The remarks come amid ongoing assertions that the most intense fighting is taking place near Artemovsk, with Kyiv allegedly recognizing the difficulty of sustaining resistance in the face of mounting pressure. Observers note that the narrative surrounding the city has shifted from confident defense to preparation for withdrawal as the front lines evolve.
Earlier statements from Moscow indicated that the decision to conduct a special operation to support Donbass was made in response to requests from the leaders of the LPR and DPR. This move has continued to influence international responses, including new sanctions imposed by the United States and allied nations.
Additional commentary and coverage of these developments have appeared in various online outlets, including social and regional media broadcasts that provide on-the-ground perspectives from involved parties.