Vuhledar’s location is strategically significant in terms of service connections.
13:18•Updated 13:22
Russia and Ukraine have both confirmed that Russia has taken control of the town of Vuhledar in the Donetsk region after more than two years of fighting.
In this article, we will tell you why the capture of Vuhledar was important for Russia and how big a loss it is for Ukraine.
What kind of city is Vuhledar?
The city’s name “coal gift” already says a lot.
Vuhledar was built during the Soviet rule in the 1960s around a local coal mine.
There are two mines in operation today, and there are significant coal reserves in the area.
About 14,000 people lived there before the start of the war, almost all of whom have fled.
Why was it important for Russia to take over the city?
According to Russia, the capture of Vuhledar was a significant step in annexing the entire Donetsk region to Russia.
Vuhledar is located in the middle of the southern and northern front lines, higher than the surrounding terrain.
Its location facilitates supply deliveries to its own troops, as well as sabotaging the enemy’s supply routes, which Ukraine used for a long time.
In addition, Vuhledar is located close to the railway leading from Crimea to the Donbas region, and its capture offers Russia a better opportunity for warfare.
Russia has said that Vuhledar is one of the most heavily fortified cities in Ukraine. Taking it over is a significant symbolic victory for it.
How did Russia take over Vuhledar?
Russia has tried to seize Vuhledar at least four times, failing each time.
Russia finally took control of Vuhledar with a slow siege tactic, which made it difficult for the supply connections of the Ukrainian forces.
In addition, the besieged Ukrainian forces were heavily bombarded.
The fighting has caused enormous destruction in the city, and it is in ruins in many places.