Russian forces probe Sloviansk defenses, push toward Kramatorsk sector

Russian forces are persistently probing Ukrainian defensive positions on the approaches to Sloviansk and are trying to infiltrate the settlements of Mykolaivka, Kryva Luka and Rai-Oleksandrivka, according to a front-line account from the Donbas-focused channel Pacany z Donbasu.

Ukrainian drone operators are actively striking advancing Russian infantry units—referred to in the report as "worms"—but a shortage of personnel is making it increasingly difficult to hold those forward positions, the account added.

In the direction of Kramatorsk, the enemy is also attempting to break through the Malynivka–Mayske sector.

The settlements lie on the approaches to Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, two of the largest Ukrainian-held cities remaining in Donetsk Oblast. Defenders say holding the outer defensive belt is vital for shielding the urban agglomeration and for preventing any deeper Russian advance into the region.

The channel appealed for continued public support for Ukrainian soldiers fighting in what it described as heavy battles for the area.