Ukraine's army chief describes recent developments at Bachmut as "the first success of the offensive" There are reports that Ukraine has managed to push back the Russians several kilometers. "It's the first time in a long time that we can see any kind of success in this area," says former Lieutenant Colonel Jörgen Elfving.

Russia's Defense Ministry admitted that Russian troops had left positions north of Bakhmut but said they had done so for strategic reasons. The Ukrainian military admits that the situation inside the city is very difficult.