Russian forces are advancing on Sloviansk after the withdrawal of the Armed Forces of Ukraine from Siversk.

According to ТСН: The Defense Forces of Ukraine have left Siversk in the Donetsk region. The main task now is to hold back the advance of Russian troops in this direction to avoid worsening the situation for Sloviansk.

This was reported by military expert, flight instructor, and retired colonel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Roman Svytan. He noted that the withdrawal from Siversk increases the threat to Sloviansk, as the positions of Ukrainian forces from the east have now become more vulnerable compared to the northern direction, where the enemy is being held back near Lyman.

What might happen next

Svytan emphasized that Russian troops have been trying to advance from Lysychansk toward Sloviansk for several years. Until now, Ukrainian forces have successfully held them back near Bilohorivka, but this year the situation on this front has significantly worsened.

He also noted that the Ukrainian forces cannot hold their positions under the threat of encirclement, so the withdrawal to new lines is a forced and tactically justified decision. However, serious measures are now needed to contain the enemy.

'If the advance cannot be contained, problems will arise for Sloviansk. In that case, we will have to prepare for the evacuation of the civilian population — and that means tens of thousands of people from the Sloviansk – Kramatorsk – Druzhkivka agglomeration,' Svytan concluded.

Earlier, it was reported that due to a significant numerical advantage of the enemy in manpower and equipment, Ukrainian units decided to withdraw from the settlement of Siversk in Donetsk region to preserve personnel and combat capability.

These events indicate a difficult situation on the front and the need to rethink defense strategies. Given the threat to major cities like Sloviansk, it is important to remain vigilant and take all necessary measures to protect the civilian population. The Ukrainian military plans to work to stop the further advance of the enemy and regain control of the situation.