Written By Lisa Murimi
Russian forces have taken full control of the eastern Ukrainian city of Vuhledar, following intense fighting that has lasted more than two years.
Ukrainian troops were ordered to retreat to avoid encirclement, according to Ukraine’s eastern military command.
The battle for Vuhledar, a key strategic city in Donetsk, has been ongoing since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Russian forces, utilizing a flanking strategy, gradually closed in on the city, capturing nearby villages and cutting off vital supply routes.
Pro-Kremlin bloggers posted videos and images of Russian flags atop buildings in the city, confirming the takeover.
Ukrainian soldiers who managed to escape described a chaotic retreat, with many troops stranded due to communication blackouts and relentless Russian artillery and drone strikes.
One soldier, Roman, recounted the harrowing escape, where Ukrainian troops had to flee on foot through minefields, as roads were heavily monitored by Russian forces.
The fall of Vuhledar marks a significant blow for Ukraine, which has fought fiercely to defend the city.
Ukrainian officials have yet to officially comment on the situation.
As of Tuesday, around 100 civilians remain trapped in the city, with humanitarian aid efforts severely hindered by ongoing fighting.
