Time line of the battle for Ukraine’s Bakhmut

Step into the gripping narrative of “Bakhmut: Battleground Chronicles,” an AI-generated gallery that chronicles the intense conflict in the war-torn city. From Ukraine’s withdrawal and Russian advancements to President Zelenskyy’s visits, the exhibition captures the resilience and determination of both sides. Explore the diverse perspectives through powerful visuals and immersive storytelling, shedding light on the strategic importance and the human cost of this embattled region. Witness the ebb and flow of the conflict as Ukrainian forces fiercely defend their fortress, while Russian mercenaries claim victory. Delve into the complexities of this ongoing struggle, provoking contemplation on the consequences of war and the pursuit of peace. Discover the indomitable spirit that lingers amidst the chaos in Bakhmut.

May 8, 2022: Ukraine confirms the withdrawal of its forces from the town of Popasna, located approximately 24km east of Bakhmut. This withdrawal leaves the major road between the two settlements vulnerable to advancing Russian forces. The Ukrainian military expresses concerns about the potential artillery bombardment on Bakhmut.
May 8, 2022: Ukraine confirms the withdrawal of its forces from the town of Popasna, located approximately 24km east of Bakhmut. This withdrawal leaves the major road between the two settlements vulnerable to advancing Russian forces. The Ukrainian military expresses concerns about the potential artillery bombardment on Bakhmut.
August 9, 2022 – British defense intelligence reports that the Bakhmut axis has been the most successful front for Russian forces in the past 30 days. Troops have advanced approximately 10km in the region, raising concerns about the security situation in Bakhmut and its surrounding areas.
October 8, 2022 – Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin claims that the assault on Bakhmut city has begun, carried out by Wagner fighters. This development intensifies the conflict in the region, posing significant challenges for Ukrainian forces defending the city.
October 15, 2022 – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledges the difficult situation in Bakhmut, considering it the most challenging front line. He emphasizes that Ukrainian forces are holding their positions despite the ongoing hostilities.
December 20, 2022 – President Zelenskyy pays a surprise visit to Bakhmut, where he commends the bravery of Ukrainian troops and expresses his unwavering support. He refers to the soldiers as “superhuman” and urges them to continue fighting in the face of adversity.
January 25, 2023, Ukraine’s military announces its withdrawal from the town of Soledar, located north of Bakhmut. This development raises concerns as Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin previously claimed control over Soledar’s salt mines, indicating the presence of Wagner fighters.
February 3, 2023 – President Zelenskyy reaffirms Ukraine’s commitment to defend Bakhmut, emphasizing that it is considered a fortress and that the country will fight for it as long as possible. He declares that Bakhmut will not be surrendered to the enemy.
March 10, 2023 – Following discussions and debates over the strategic importance of Bakhmut, Ukraine decides to reinforce its beleaguered soldiers in the city. The decision is based on the belief that the battle in Bakhmut is locking down Russia’s best military units.
March 22, 2023 – President Zelenskyy makes another surprise visit, this time near Bakhmut, to express his gratitude to the troops for their bravery. He personally hands out awards to the soldiers, acknowledging their dedication and sacrifice in the ongoing conflict.
April 2, 2023 – Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Russian mercenary leader, claims to have raised a Russian flag at Bakhmut’s city hall, asserting that the city has been captured by Moscow from a legal standpoint. However, Ukraine rejects this claim, citing uncertainty regarding the exact location where Prigozhin hoisted the flag, leading to further disputes over the control of Bakhmut.
April 11, 2023 – Yevgeny Prigozhin asserts that Wagner forces control over 80% of Bakhmut, signaling their dominance. However, Ukraine denies this claim, stating that they maintain control over a considerably larger portion of the city, intensifying the conflicting narratives regarding Bakhmut’s control.
April 26, 2023 – The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence reports that fighting has reached the western outskirts of Bakhmut, particularly around the settlement of Khromove on the city’s northwestern edge. Ukraine strives to retain control of the main access road, indicating the ongoing struggle for territorial control.
May 1, 2023 – Ukraine claims to have successfully ousted Russian forces from some positions in Bakhmut following fierce battles. This development showcases the determination and resilience of Ukrainian troops in defending the city.
May 10, 2023 – Ukraine’s ground forces commander announces that Russian units in certain parts of Bakhmut have retreated by up to two kilometers. This retreat indicates a temporary shift in the dynamics of the conflict, providing a glimmer of hope for Ukrainian forces.
Ukraine declares that it has repelled attacks launched by Russian forces attempting to recapture territory around Bakhmut. However, Yevgeny Prigozhin claims that heavy and bloody battles are ongoing, and his forces are close to completely capturing Bakhmut, presenting conflicting narratives.
May 20, 2023 – Prigozhin says Wagner forces have complete the capture of Bakhmut. Ukraine says the situation there is critical, with its troops still defending the southwestern part of the city.

Reference: The battle for Ukraine’s Bakhmut: A timeline