Claims by pro-Russian sources that a key Ukrainian logistics hub near Donetsk has fallen have been dismissed by military analysts—though they concede that the hub, named Chasiv Yar, may soon be captured.
In a report published on Thursday, July 31st, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) claims that
Russian forces will likely complete the seizure of Chasiv Yar in the coming days, which will open several possible avenues for Russian forces to attack Ukraine’s fortress belt—a series of fortified cities that form the backbone of Ukraine’s defensive positions in Donetsk Oblast.
If Chasiv Yar falls, it would mark a major logistical blow for Ukraine. The ISW report highlights the heavy casualties Russia is incurring to capture and hold the area.
Despite Moscow—which is clearly preparing to escalate the conflict overall—setting itself the goal of the complete capture of the Donetsk region, Ukraine still controls about 32% of the territory.
