Ukrainian troops have withdrawn from the embattled eastern town of Siversk, as Russia continues its steady advance. The Ukrainian military said it acted "to preserve the lives of our soldiers and the combat capability of units", adding that Russian forces had a "significant advantage in manpower". The capture of Siversk brings Russia closer to the last remaining "fortress belt" cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk still in Ukrainian hands in the industrial Donetsk region.

According to officials, the Ukrainian military's decision to withdraw from Siversk was made in response to the significant manpower advantage held by Russian forces. "Despite significant losses, Russian troops are continuing active offensive actions in the Siversk area," the Ukrainian military stated. The withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Siversk marks a significant loss for Ukraine, as the town had been a key stronghold in the region.

The capture of Siversk is a strategic victory for Russia, as it brings the country closer to the last remaining "fortress belt" cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. These cities are still in Ukrainian hands and are considered crucial to the country's defense in the industrial Donetsk region. The Ukrainian military has stated that it will continue to defend these cities at all costs.

The situation in Ukraine has been ongoing since Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022. Moscow currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory. The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of people. The international community has been working to provide aid and support to Ukraine, but the situation remains complex and challenging.

The implications of the capture of Siversk are significant, as it marks a further erosion of Ukraine's control over the Donetsk region. The loss of Siversk will likely have a psychological impact on the Ukrainian people, who have been fighting to defend their country for over a year. The international community will be watching closely to see how Ukraine responds to this loss and how it will continue to defend its territory.

The current situation in Ukraine remains fluid, with both sides continuing to engage in active combat. The Ukrainian military has stated that it will continue to defend its territory at all costs, but the capture of Siversk marks a significant setback for the country. The international community will be watching closely to see how the situation develops in the coming days and weeks.