Photo: Channel 24
Russian occupants persist in their attempts to advance in the Chasiv Yar area of the Donetsk region, a strategically significant settlement situated atop a hill, pivotal for both Ukrainian and Russian military interests.
Roman Pohorilyi, co-founder and analyst at DeepState, elaborated on these developments during an interview on Hromadske Radio.
«The situation remains challenging as the enemy has amassed forces near Bohdanivka, with intentions to seize Chasiv Yar. Currently, they are endeavoring to gain full control over Ivanivske, which they have nearly accomplished. The Russians have already reached the heights of Chasiv Yar, a development that should have been prevented. We were informed of defense preparations in that area. Now the process of «testing» these defenses has commenced. The enemy seeks to bypass Ivanivske and aims for its complete capture. Subsequently, they plan to advance along the road towards Chasiv Yar for occupation. They persist in shelling and devastating the region with aircraft, artillery, and relentless drone attacks. Despite these dire circumstances, our military continues to repel the enemy onslaught and inflict significant losses upon them. The frontline near Bohdanivka has remained stable for a considerable period, reflecting the steadfast efforts of our soldiers.
Overall, there have been minimal advances, often at great cost to the Russians. Most of the fighting in the Chasiv Yar area is concentrated around Bohdanivka and Ivanivske. The situation remains dynamic as our military also take proactive measures, delivering counterattacks, reclaiming positions, and pushing back the enemy. However, the enemy’s aggression persists, with continuous assaults day and night», — stated Pohorilyi.
The enemy has concentrated various troop types near Chasiv Yar, with airborne units being predominant.
«Primarily, airborne troops have been deployed in the vicinity. Numerous units and reinforcements have been amassed, including rogue elements targeting our military. Such incidents occur frequently, both publicly and covertly», — noted the DeepState analyst.
Maintaining control over Chasiv Yar is crucial for maintaining dominance over the surrounding lowlands and thwarting enemy advances.
«Chasiv Yar presents an opportunity for us to establish a robust defense due to its elevated position. The expansive ridge offers ample space for fortifications. Control over the Chasiv Yar heights enables us to dictate the battlefield, impeding enemy advances and neutralizing threats preemptively. If the enemy gains control over these heights, they would have a strategic foothold, potentially enabling further advances and control over a significant area. Moreover, if the Russians fortify these heights, taking them back would pose formidable challenges, given their proficiency in engineering and fortifications», — explained Pohorilyi.
The Russians are actively employing FPV drones across the frontline, posing challenges for Ukrainian forces, although Ukrainian capabilities in this regard remain competitive.
0«FPV drones pose a significant challenge for our military, not only in Chasiv Yar or Kupyansk but across various fronts, including Avdiivka. Unofficial statistics indicate that our forces are keeping pace with, and in some cases, surpassing Russian capabilities in this domain. We extensively employ FPV drones and are continuously refining our techniques. Time has shown that they are among the most effective means of engagement, capable of targeting infantry and vehicles alike», — concluded the DeepState analyst.