Russia Claims Capture of Chasiv Yar After 16-Month Battle; Ukraine Denies

 

Russia has announced the capture of Chasiv Yar, a strategic town in eastern Ukraine, after nearly 16 months of intense combat. The Russian Ministry of Defence stated that its troops had “liberated” the town, though Ukraine immediately rejected the claim. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy labeled the announcement as “disinformation,” and Ukrainian military sources described it as pure propaganda. Still, a video verified by Reuters shows Russian paratroopers raising a flag in the town’s ruins, suggesting they may have established at least partial control.

The battle for Chasiv Yar began in April 2024, when Russian forces advanced from the east. The town, once home to more than 12,000 people, now lies in ruins. Before the war, its economy was centered around a concrete and brick materials factory. Its strategic location just west of Bakhmut   which Russia captured in 2023   makes it a potential stepping stone toward further advances, especially toward Kostiantynivka.

See also: Trump Raises Tariffs on Canada, Spares Mexico, Slaps New Duties on Global Imports

Military analysts say the terrain of Chasiv Yar favored Ukrainian defenders, with forests, waterways, and hills slowing Russia’s progress. However, if Russia has indeed taken full control, it may enable them to bring drones and other military equipment closer to the front lines, putting new pressure on Ukrainian logistics and defensive positions. The fall of Chasiv Yar, while not yet fully confirmed, could mark a turning point in Russia’s slow but persistent advance in eastern Ukraine.

Despite Russia’s claim of victory in Chasiv Yar, Ukraine insists that fighting in and around the town is ongoing. President Zelenskiy, in a video address, said Ukrainian units are “defending our positions” and that Russian advances in Donetsk, Sumy, and Kharkiv are being pushed back. He cited reports from top commander Oleksandr Syrskyi, who said the fiercest battles are currently taking place near the city of Pokrovsk, 60 kilometers southwest of Chasiv Yar.

The Ukrainian blog DeepState, known for tracking Russian movements using open source data, also denied that Chasiv Yar had fallen, suggesting that any Russian presence is limited and still being contested. Military analyst Emil Kastehelmi noted that while the fall of the town would be a serious blow to Ukraine, it does not necessarily mean a rapid Russian breakthrough is coming. He emphasized that even if Russia takes full control, advances are still expected to be gradual due to the terrain and ongoing Ukrainian resistance.

See also: Canada to Recognize Palestinian State at UN, Joining UK and France in Policy Shift

The town’s destruction reflects the broader toll of the war, which has entered its fourth year with no ceasefire in sight. The U.S., reacting to the slow diplomatic progress and Russia’s continued offensives, has threatened to impose fresh sanctions on Moscow and on countries still trading in Russian exports.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in towns like Chasiv Yar continues to worsen. With infrastructure shattered and local economies destroyed, displaced civilians have little chance of returning soon. Both sides are now shifting their focus to surrounding areas, particularly Pokrovsk, which could be the next major battleground. While Russia claims a win, the fog of war still hangs over Chasiv Yar. The coming weeks will likely determine whether this town becomes a confirmed turning point or just another temporary front line.