Changes on the Frontline: Most of Chasiv Yar Controlled by Russians, Ukrainian Forces Hold Defense
The ongoing military conflict in eastern Ukraine remains one of the most intense and critical phases of the war, especially around the city of Chasiv Yar in Donetsk region.
Recent reports indicate that the majority of this strategically significant settlement is currently under Russian occupation.
Nevertheless, Ukrainian troops continue to hold defensive positions in key microdistricts despite intense shelling and ongoing assaults, maintaining resilience amid continuous fighting.
Battalion commander “Donbas” of the 18th Slavic Brigade of the National Guard, Lieutenant Colonel Mykola Shevchuk, also known as “Skiif,” explained in an interview that Russia now controls most parts of the city, including Shevchenko district, southern neighborhoods, parts of Zakhidne, and the Northern microdistrict.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian defenders are engaged in fierce battles for Zakhidne settlement and approaches to Virolyubivka, Mykolaivka, and Mayske.
According to Ukrainian intelligence, Russian forces are deploying all available weaponry, including banned munitions, with gas bombs and chemical agents.
Recently, deadly gases have been used, resulting in casualties.
The enemy’s arsenal now includes a new lethal gas, and Ukrainian soldiers face significant difficulties in relocating to and from positions due to drone surveillance along the entire rear zone.
The drones now monitor distances of 6-8 km, an increase from previous ranges of 1-3 km, complicating troop movements and causing delays that can last a day or two.
Due to continuous high-intensity fighting and the inability to rotate personnel, Ukrainian soldiers have been holding one of their positions in Chasiv Yar for over 130 days.
According to Shevchuk, there have been no discussions within command about withdrawing troops from the city.
The primary objective for Ukraine’s defense forces remains holding Chasiv Yar, which, according to him, is achievable with current capabilities.
The city is of strategic importance because from the high ground, one can see Kostiantynivka, Oleksiivka-Druzhkivka, Druzkyvka, and Kramatorsk.
Losing it would allow Russian forces to encircle Kostiantynivka and advance toward Druzкивka, which would be a significant strategic setback.
The conflict there has been ongoing for over six months, intensifying since spring 2024 when Russian troops launched an active assault.
On July 31, 2025, Russian Defense Ministry claimed that the city was ‘captured,’ but Ukrainian President Zelensky dismissed this as a Russian misinformation propaganda, reaffirming that Ukrainian forces still control the area.