Russia claims that it now has gained full control of Bakhmut after a nine-month siege but Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar says that Ukraine maintains a foothold and allowing Russia to advance has been strategic. “The offensive potential of the enemy has been significantly reduced. Huge losses have been inflicted on the enemy. We have gained time for certain actions, which will be revealed later,” Maliar said. Phillips O’Brien, a professor of strategic studies at the University of St. Andrews said, “The Russian army has suffered such high losses and is so worn out around Bakhmut that…it cannot go forward anymore.” Euronews reports that a press release by the Wagner mercenary group says now that victory has been achieved, the group will leave Bakhmut no later than June 1 and leave the city in the hands of Russian troops.
