Toretsk is on the brink of capture by Russian forces.
Military expert Roman Svitan shared this information with "24 Channel." He warns that if the Russians take Toretsk, it will pave their way to other key cities such as Konstantinovka, Druzhkovka, Slavyansk, and Kramatorsk.
According to Svitan, the situation in Toretsk is already so dire that it resembles the circumstances faced by Ugledar. The loss of Toretsk could have catastrophic consequences for Ukrainian forces, as this city is strategically crucial for controlling the Druzhkovka-Kramatorsk-Slavyansk agglomeration.
"By capturing Toretsk, the Russians will be able to advance toward Konstantinovka without obstruction. They understand that the direct route to Slavyansk and Kramatorsk through Vremenny Yar is currently blocked, so they will try to circumvent this city from the west," the expert explains.
Svitan states that if Ukrainian troops retreat to Konstantinovka, the command will have to take measures to secure this important settlement. Should Konstantinovka be captured, Russian forces will be able to move into Vremenny Yar, further escalating the situation.
"This is not just a military strategy; it is a matter of survival for over 100,000 civilians living in Druzhkovka, Kramatorsk, and Slavyansk. Allowing the enemy to approach this agglomeration and permitting them to destroy these cities is unacceptable," emphasizes Svitan.
The expert highlights the urgent need for Ukrainian command to take steps to strengthen defenses in Toretsk.
Previously, representatives of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed that Russian troops have already entered Toretsk.