The relationship between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the commander-in-chief of his army, General Valery Saluschnyj, is said to have broken down. It was reported by «Bild», citing various sources in the Ukrainian leadership. The dispute is about one of the bloodiest scenes in Russia’s offensive war against Ukraine: the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.
The president and his commander-in-chief generally disagree on how the military should deal with Bakhmut. For tactical reasons, Salushnyi recommended a few weeks ago to consider withdrawing from Bakhmut. From Kiev, according to “Bild”, it was said that the decision to stay with Bachmut was the right one.
For weeks, Russian troops have been trying to capture the city in the Donetsk region that Zelensky has declared a fortress. Russia is using the infamous “Wagner” mercenary group, which has already suffered heavy casualties, according to Ukrainian reports. Recently, however, Russia managed to gain ground – the defenders of the city are now threatened with encirclement. Bachmut is under pressure from three sides so far, only one side in the west is still open
“The vast majority of soldiers in Bakhmut do not understand why the city is being held,” an anonymous Ukrainian military expert told “Bild”. Many soldiers feel that a retreat should have happened a long time ago. However, according to Kiev, the goal is not to let the Russians advance and inflict the heaviest losses on them, “Bild” reports.
Had anyone withdrawn from Bakhmut, there would have been similar fighting elsewhere. Significant damage was done to the Russians, both in terms of personnel and equipment.
According to “Bild”, Selenskyj and Zalushnyj are no longer just about military issues. The general enjoys growing popular popularity and is being traded as the next presidential candidate. Selenskyj’s environment would see him as a possible rival, although he never promised a candidacy.
The Russian army continued its efforts to take the eastern Ukrainian city on Sunday. “They (the Russian troops) will not stop attacking Bakhmut and the surrounding settlements,” Ukraine’s General Staff in Kiev said in its evening situation report. Numerous settlements around Bachmut had been shelled with mortars and artillery. The generals in Kiev gave no information about gains or losses in territory.
Used sources:
(t-online, aj)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
