OEKRAÏNE
Russische invasie: Situatie dag 324
January 13, 2023 - Russian forces claim to control the whole of the salt-mining town of Soledar, where up to 600 civilians are still trapped, but pockets of resistance remain.
Ukrainian forces appear to have been pushed out and no longer present an organised defence of the settlement, with reports of Russian attacks being repelled in villages beyond previous Ukrainian positions. However, bitter fighting is continuing and progress for Russian forces is proving costly, having committed significant troop resources into a highly attritional battle, with only marginal tactical significance.
Poland is calling on Germany not to hold up military support for Ukraine as it plans to send 10 German-made Leopard tanks, requiring German permission, as part of an international coalition. France is also hoping to deliver AMX 10-RC tanks within two months.
- Russian offensive campaign assessment (ISW)
- France hoping to deliver AMX 10-RC tanks to Ukraine in two months' time -minister (Reuters)
- Russia's troubles in Ukraine likely caused leadership shakeup: Pentagon (Reuters)
- ‘Small pockets of resistance’ from Ukraine in Soledar, says Moscow-installed official (The Guardian)
- Zelenskiy: Ukraine forces are holding Soledar positions, inflicting big losses (Reuters