The fighting in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is “the most difficult because you are very close to the enemy,” Serhii Sherevaty, a spokesman for the Eastern Group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, told national television on Sunday, CNN reported.

“But the supply route remains open, and Ukrainian forces are holding their positions,” he said.

Wagner’s mercenaries were “the most aggressive in the direction of Bakhmut,” he said, but Russian paratroopers and infantry are also fighting in and around Bakhmut. “The Russians still have a significant artillery advantage in the areas where they deliver the main blow,” he said.

“We supply Bakhmut with ammunition, food and supplies, but we also take out the wounded,” Sherewati said.

Russian forces are continuing their offensive to take “full control” of Bakhmut, the Ukrainian military said in its latest operational report on Sunday morning.

According to unofficial reports, Russian forces are continuing their slow advance through the center of Bakhmut towards the western parts of the city, with the railway station a potential next key target.

Ukrainian army grenade launcher Yuriy Syrotyuk said in an interview on national television on Sunday that the situation in Bakhmut is “very difficult” for Kyiv forces, as they are outnumbered by Russian troops and Wagner fighters.

“Bahmut endures; There is a supply,” but “the Russians outnumber us and have more ammunition,” Syrotyuk said.

“It’s hell in Bakhmut. Now we hold the right flank of the city’s defense. Enemy artillery is firing continuously, as well as (reactive salvo fire systems) and aircraft,” he said.

“It is very difficult now, because Russian artillery and tanks have come very close, they are trying to shoot everywhere. Paratroopers (enemies) arrived with weapons. Unfortunately, the enemy is well armed. There is no shortage of personnel or ammunition in Bakhmut,” he added.

The Russian offensive on the southern flank of the city has weakened, “so they are trying to advance frontally through the city,” said Syrotyuk. Russia has moved its artillery and rocket launchers within the city limits.

“The enemy is destroying everything and advancing through the ruins,” but the supply route to Bakhmut is open, said a Ukrainian official.

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