The New York Times suggested that imposing restrictions on the entry of civilians into the city of Artyomovsk (Bakhmut) could be a prelude to the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the city.
On Monday, the Ukrainian military said they would not allow aid groups and volunteers into the city because of the dangers of street fighting.
According to the publication, this may be “a prelude to leaving the city, although the Ukrainian army insists on maintaining control over the city.”
She added: “The decision to close the city to rescue teams may indicate that the Ukrainian army is unable to secure areas of the city that have been relatively safe for several months, such as areas on the west bank of the Pakhmutka River that are further away from Russian artillery positions.” .
She pointed out that “this is further evidence that Russian forces are close to taking the city under their control.”
Source: The New York Times.
