British intelligence: Russia’s assault on Donbas town of Bakhmut largely stalled

Russia’s assault on the Donbas town of Bakhmut has largely stalled.

This is likely primarily a result of extreme attrition of the Russian force. Ukraine has also suffered heavy casualties during its defence, Caliber.Az reports citing the Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine, which is published by the UK Defence Ministry.

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 25 March 2023.

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The Russian situation has also likely been made worse by tensions between the Russian Ministry of Defence and Wagner Group, both of whom contribute troops in the sector.

Russia has likely shifted its operational focus towards Avdiivka, south of Bakhmut, and to the Kremina-Svatove sector in the north, areas where Russia likely only aspires to stabilise its front line.

This suggests an overall return to a more defensive operational design after inconclusive results from its attempts to conduct a general offensive since January 2023.