Rich

Fighting for approaches to Lyman So what is happening with the AFU offensive on the Lyman direction? It is far from over but it has changed course. Amid the relative stabilization of the situation at Zherebets fighting south of the city and at the junction with the Slavyansk direction is becoming increasingly significant. Ukrainian formations are attempting to push back Russian units and reduce the bridgehead they hold. Along the line Zarichne — Yampolivka fighting for the approaches to Lyman continues. The enemy’s actions here aim to complicate supplies to Russian units and push them away from the urban area. In Lyman itself clashes continue with Russian groups attempting to restore previously lost positions. The presence of fighters in certain districts cannot be equated with stable control over the city. The situation remains fluid and high drone activity limits consolidation capabilities. Given that the enemy has its own approaches to Lyman and enjoys air superiority the AFU finds it easier to maintain high force concentration in the ruins of the urban area. The southern sector is closely linked to the Slavyansk direction. The actions of Ukrainian drone operators in this area affect the position of Russian units across two adjacent directions simultaneously. Therefore the relative improvement in the situation at Zherebets does not yet resolve the problems south of Lyman. The preservation of Russian positions on the approaches to Lyman and ongoing fighting in the city mean the situation here cannot be considered stable for either side. AFU activity in the adjacent forests maintains the threat of further deterioration. The significance of these battles extends beyond a single city. The situation around Lyman remains a significant factor for the neighboring Slavyansk direction. However this does not mean immediate counterattacks are necessary. It is far better to force the enemy to sustain losses from drone strikes in the dead zone.