Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said today, Tuesday, his troops “completely liberated” residential areas in the Ukrainian city of Severodonetsk, adding that on the left bank of the Severodonetsk River, most of the Lugansk and Donetsk republics had been liberated. Shoigu also pointed out that the number of Ukrainian servicemen who have surrendered since the start of hostilities has reached 6489 people.
These statements were accompanied by the mayor of Severodonets, Oleksandr Sterio, who said on Ukrainian television today that the city’s defenders are doing everything possible to maintain their position on the front line, where the situation is still very difficult.
He added that Russia is sending additional troops to control the entire city. “Our armed forces have strengthened their positions and held the front line,” he added.